September 3, 2026

CITY MANAGER'S MESSAGE

Smart Financial Practices Get Recognized

I’m extremely proud to share that the City of Lacey received the State Auditor’s Stewardship Award, a special recognition from the Washington State Auditor’s Office for outstanding financial accountability and transparency.

This recognition clearly reflects the hard work and dedication of our Finance team. However, good financial stewardship doesn’t happen in just one department — it takes everyone doing their part to manage resources carefully, follow sound practices, and ensure public dollars are used responsibly. Thank you to all City staff throughout the organization for doing your part as well.

While financial audits may not be the most exciting part of local government, they are an important part of how we earn and maintain the community’s trust. This award recognizes agencies that demonstrate strong financial practices, effective internal controls, and a commitment to accountability and transparency in managing public funds. We’re proud to be recognized alongside other agencies that share this commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources.

While it’s wonderful to receive this award, I’m especially proud of the care our employees take in managing the resources the Lacey community entrusts to us. It’s the people behind the numbers who make this kind of recognition possible.

Again, special thanks to our Finance team and all our employees who work every day to be good stewards of public resources. This award is something you can all be very proud of, and I thank you for the exemplary financial stewardship and service you provide to the Lacey community.

— Rick Walk

CITY MANAGER'S SPOTLIGHT: It's the People!

Congratulations, Vince McGowan!

I’m pleased to announce and congratulate Vince McGowan on his promotion to Public Works Director!

Vince brings more than 20 years of experience in environmental engineering, water resources, and local government, along with a deep commitment to protecting the environment and serving our community.

After earning his master’s degree in Hydrology from Southern Illinois University, Vince moved to Olympia in 2002 and began his career with the City of Olympia’s Public Works Department. His experience there gave him a strong foundation in the region’s unique environmental and water resources and helped him grow into a leadership role.

In 2009, Vince joined the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Water Quality Program. During his more than 10 years with Ecology, he worked on water quality issues throughout the region and ultimately led the program during his last five years.

In 2025, Vince joined the City as Water Resources Manager. In this role, he oversaw some of the services that are most essential to our community — including safe drinking water, wastewater management, and stormwater and surface water protection.

With his extensive experience, skills in leading large, diverse teams, and commitment to public service, Vince is well-prepared to lead our Public Works Department in meeting the needs of the Lacey community, now and into the future.

I am excited to see him take on this new role and look forward to what’s ahead. Congratulations, Vince!

— Rick Walk

NEWS & UPDATES

Ready Together: Lacey Recognizes Emergency Preparedness Month

At its September 1 meeting, the Lacey City Council recognized September 2026 as Emergency Preparedness Month, encouraging community members to take steps to prepare themselves, their families, and their neighbors for the impacts of an emergency.

The City invited members of the Thurston County Amateur Radio Emergency Services (TC ARES) to accept the proclamation and recognize their outstanding service to the community.

TC ARES President John Wruble noted, “TC ARES is a group of trained volunteers on amateur radios and emergency communications who have a strong desire to serve the community and give back the best we can. It’s not just about radios … it’s about the people. It’s about building a culture where every household, business, and neighborhood understands the role that they’re going to play in the case of a disaster.”

TC ARES has supported the Lacey community in many ways, including staffing and supporting the Lacey Fun Fair, 3rd of July Fireworks Spectacular, and the Lacey Holiday Lights events. The organization has been a valuable partner in strengthening the City’s emergency communications capabilities.

Read the full proclamation here.

Reminder: The Emergency Preparedness Expo runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, September 26, at Lacey Community Center. See the Community Events section below for full details.

Plan Your Fall with Parks, Culture & Recreation

Ready to fill your calendar with fun, learning, and recreation? Fall registration for Lacey Parks, Culture & Recreation opens Wednesday, September 16, at 9 a.m.

Want to plan ahead? Get a sneak peek of fall programs beginning Wednesday, September 9. 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 fall toward any of our offerings for anyone in your household. Apply today at LaceyParks.org/FA.

Mark your calendar and get ready for a great fall in Lacey!

Back-to-School Reminder: Know When to Stop for School Buses

As students head back to the classroom, those big yellow school buses are once again making their daily rounds through our neighborhoods. For drivers, it’s a good time for a quick refresher on when you need to stop — and when you can proceed.

Remember:

Two-lane roads: Traffic in both directions must stop when a school bus has its red lights flashing and stop arm extended.
Three or more lanes (no median): Only vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop.
Center turn lane: Vehicles traveling in the same direction as the bus must stop.
Divided highway with a median/barrier: Only traffic going in the same direction as the bus must stop.

As the school year gets underway, give yourself a little extra time on your commute and stay especially alert in school zones, residential neighborhoods, and around bus stops. A few extra seconds of patience can make all the difference in keeping kids safe.

Reminder: City Facilities Closed for Labor Day Holiday

City Hall, the Public Works Administrative Building, and the Lacey Veterans Services Hub will be closed on Monday, September 7, in observance of Labor Day.

To access online services, visit the City's website.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Kick Off September with the Lacey Night Market

Summer may be wrapping up, but the Lacey Night Market is here to keep the fun alive this Friday, September 4, at Lacey Depot Park. Kick back and enjoy "Country Night", with lively music, tasty eats, and one-of-a-kind finds from local vendors. Gather your friends and family for a night of community and connection under the lights.

Event Details:

Date: Friday, September 4
Time: 5 – 9 p.m.
Location: Lacey Depot Park (5700 Lacey Blvd SE)

The season may be changing, but the Night Market is still the place to be this September!

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). Parking in any privately owned lots puts your vehicle at risk of being towed. Click here to view a map of approved off-site parking!

Help Us Celebrate Lacey's Newest Park!

Come explore Lacey’s newest park and commemorate the Grand Opening of Greg Cuoio Park! The celebration begins at 5:30 p.m., with the official ribbon-cutting ceremony at 6 p.m.!

Enjoy a Park Explorer Scavenger Hunt, cool stickers and giveaways, free ice cream from Sweetlee’s Ice Cream, disc golf demonstrations, a themed photo opportunity, and live DJ music.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, September 24
Time: 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Cuoio Park | 2711 Carpenter Road NE

Parking is limited, so visitors are encouraged to use the free, ADA-accessible shuttle service provided by Intercity Transit. Shuttles will pick up and drop off at Cabela’s, 1600 Gateway Blvd NE, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The last shuttle will leave the park at 7:30 p.m. Families should bring appropriate car seats or booster seats for children.

For more details, visit the Cuoio Park Grand Opening website.

Red Power: Tribal Sovereignty and Civil Rights

During the Civil Rights Era, many Americans were fighting to secure equal rights, representation, and a place in American society. For Indigenous Peoples, however, these questions have always been more complex. Within the United States, Tribal Nations retain their inherent sovereignty and are recognized as separate governments, creating a unique relationship between Tribal Nations and the country in which they reside.

Join speaker Kyle Pittman as he explores the history of Indigenous Peoples during the Civil Rights Era and the ongoing complexities surrounding sovereignty, representation, and inclusion.

Event Details:

Date: Thursday, September 10, 2026
Time: 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Location: Lacey City Hall, Council Chambers
Want to attend virtually? Register Here!

This History Talks! program invites you to explore the motivations of the Red Power Movement as it unfolded in the context of Tribal sovereignty.

Calling all Vendors: Be Part of Children's Day!

Local businesses and community organizations help make Lacey Children’s Day extra special. From fun activities to giveaways and interactive booths — vendors are a big part of creating a day full of excitement for families.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, October 3
Time: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Location: Huntamer Park

If your business or organization would like to join in, now’s your chance! Hosting an activity booth is a great way to connect with the community and be part of one of Lacey’s most loved family events. And to make it more fun, consider an activity with this year's theme in mind - Mythical Creatures! Apply now- the deadline to submit applications is September 18!

Fluffy Fun Awaits at the Lacey Museum

Looking for a fun, creative activity for the whole family? Head to the Lacey Museum this September and bring a tiny bundle of personality to life with a colorful pom-pom critter!

This easy, hands-on craft lets visitors create their own fluffy, adorable creature. With plenty of colors and creativity to choose from, each pom-pom critter is sure to be one of a kind.

The activity is free and open to all ages, making it a perfect way for families, friends, and creative crafters to spend some time together at the museum.

Visit Us:

Thursdays and Fridays: 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Saturdays: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Come get craft and creative, and take home a little pom-pom personality of your own!

Get Ready at the Emergency Preparedness Expo

Get prepared and have some fun while you’re at it! Join us for the Emergency Preparedness Expo, a free, family-friendly event designed to help individuals and families build the skills and confidence they need to be ready for emergencies.

Explore hands-on activities and helpful resources, including CPR/AED training, a fire safety house experience, free emergency kits, and a special presentation on Washington State hazards, including earthquakes, volcanoes, and other regional risks.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, September 26
Time: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Location: Lacey Community Center (6729 Pacific Ave. SE)

The expo is sponsored by the Thurston County Emergency Management Council, Lacey Fire District 3, and the City of Lacey.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, connect, and take steps toward being better prepared. Preparedness starts with you!

Don't Miss This Community Celebration Honoring America's 250th and Lacey's 60th Anniversary!

The Lacey Historical Society invites everyone to a special community celebration honoring our local history and sharing stories.

View dozens of exhibits and programs, hear from former mayors at a Q&A session, meet local authors, and more!

Event Details:

Date: Tuesday, September 8
Time: 3 - 7 p.m.
Location: Lacey Community Center (6729 Pacific Ave. SE)

This event is FREE and open to the public. View more event details on the Lacey Historical Society website.

PARTNER POSTS

VA Home Loans 101: Your Path to Homeownership

Veterans, service members, and military families are invited to attend a free VA home loan class to learn how VA benefits can help make homeownership more accessible.

Hosted by local VA loan specialists, this informational session will walk participants through the basics of VA home loans, including eligibility and entitlement requirements. Attendees will learn about key benefits such as no-down-payment options, flexible credit requirements, and no private mortgage insurance.

Next Class Details:

Date: Tuesday, September 15
Time: 3 - 4:30 p.m.
Location: Lacey Veterans Services Hub (4232 6th Ave SE, Suite 101)

The session will also cover how VA loans can be used to buy, sell, invest in, or manage property, along with tips for avoiding common lending pitfalls.

Additional Upcoming Class Dates:

Tuesday, October 13
Thursday, October 29
Tuesday, November 17

Want more details? View the event flyer here.

These free sessions are open to active-duty service members, veterans, reservists, and military families who want to better understand how to use their VA home loan benefits.

To register or ask questions, contact 206-941-0484 or email MJohnston@Listings.com.

Night Work Happening on I-5 in Lacey Through Fall

Northbound I-5 travelers should plan extra time for overnight and early morning trips between Lacey and DuPont in Thurston and Pierce counties.

Crews will close two northbound lanes of I-5 overnight. Work will pause for the holiday weekend and resume after Labor Day. Travelers are encouraged to check the project webpage for the latest information.

Lane closure times:

6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday
5:30 p.m. Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday
6:30 p.m. Saturday to 9:30 a.m. Sunday

When work is completed on northbound I-5, crews will switch to the southbound direction.

Work zone speed cameras

Speed cameras rotate through work zones, including this project. Numerous signs will warn drivers if a camera is at a location. Work zones can be active day or night, and drivers should assume workers are in the area if they see a warning that the camera is in that location.

Know before you go

Crews expect to complete work by the end of October. Some work may be rescheduled if it rains. Before heading out the door, people are encouraged to check traffic conditions via the WSDOT Travel Center Map or WSDOT app for real-time information.

Upgrade Your Home and Save with Energize Thurston

Looking to make your home more energy-efficient while saving money? Energize Thurston is relaunching this month, offering Lacey residents access to exclusive discounts and financial incentives for qualifying heat pumps and heat pump water heaters.

Thurston County households that work with a program-certified installer can save more than $4,000 on qualified heat pump and heat pump water heater installations. A limited number of fully or partially subsidized installations will also be available to income-qualified households through the Energize Thurston Grant Program, which opens in October.

Want to learn more? Visit the Energize Thurston website to watch the educational workshop video to learn about eligibility and program details. An additional workshop series for the Energize Thurston Grant Program will be offered in fall 2026.

Energize Thurston is a partnership between the cities of Lacey, Tumwater, and Olympia, Thurston County, and South Puget Sound Habitat for Humanity.

COUNCIL CORNER

September 1 Meeting Recap

The Lacey City Council took the following actions at the September 1, 2026, Council meeting:

Approved the following meeting minutes:
August 11, 2026, Worksession Minutes
August 18, 2026, Council Minutes
Approved the payment of claims, wages, and transfers for August 5-21, 2026.
Approved the 2026 Human Services Grant Program.
Adopted the Lacey Veteran Services Hub Strategic Plan.
Proclaimed September 2026 Emergency Preparedness Month.
Received a presentation on the Lacey MakerSpace.
Received a presentation on Public Works construction projects.
Adopted Ordinance 1705 amending the 2026 Fiscal Year Budget.
Received a presentation on a proposed amendment to the Franz Anderson Interlocal Agreement for permanent supportive housing.