Growing up, many of us learned about the three branches of our federal government: the Executive (President), the Legislative (Congress), and the Judiciary (Courts). As adults, we tend to pay closer attention to the other Washington come the mid-terms and presidential election years. Otherwise, our day-to-day focus remains on the issues that directly impact our …

On Jan. 23, 2025, Pierce County marked a significant milestone by becoming home to the first climate-controlled, 24-hour access food locker on a college campus in the Western United States that provides healthy, locally sourced food to students who struggle to afford meals due to school costs. The food locker is located at the Bates …

After the holiday season rush, many people need a break to recover from the whirlwind of celebrations; the American yuletide isn’t traditionally a time of relaxation. The first opportunity most people have for a long weekend is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed on the third Monday in January each year. Because we’re often exhausted, …

By Bryan DominiqueOffice of the Pierce County Council Pierce County isn’t well known for its desert landscapes, but there is a different kind of desert that casts a long shadow over rural communities throughout the County. It’s the infamous “food desert.”  Food deserts are communities – especially those with limited transportation options – struggling to …

On Tuesday, Nov. 5, the Pierce County Council took time to honor the brave people who have served our nation with courage and commitment. This year’s Veterans Day is on Monday, Nov. 11, and as the country prepares to celebrate its Veterans, it’s a powerful moment to reflect on the deep bonds of trust, loyalty, …

By Bryan Dominique, Communications ManagerOffice of the Pierce County Council Before the cool chill of autumn set in Pierce County, Washington, even before the long days of summer took root, the Pierce County Council Chambers were buzzing with activity week after week with work on the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Periodic Update. The Comprehensive Plan provides …

The opioid epidemic has gripped the United States since the 1990s, and it has taken a particularly heavy toll on Pierce County, Washington and the greater Puget Sound region. Between January 2021 and June 2023, more than 800 Pierce County residents lost their lives to drug overdoses, including those involving stimulants. The crisis is most …

By Bryan Dominique & Jaire WinesberryOffice of the Pierce County Council In a 2022 letter to the U.S. Congress Committee on Appropriations, Congresswoman Kim Schrier (WA-08) requested $2 million for a local Pierce County Food Bank, writing, “This program will invest in greenhouse infrastructure to allow for year-round food production, which will lead to lower …

Thank you for your interest and active involvement in the update to the Pierce County Comprehensive Plan through your comments on Resolution No. R2024-158s. The Council greatly appreciate your perspectives, and there will be numerous opportunities for you to share your thoughts and insights between now and the fall when adoption of the 2024 Comprehensive …

By Bryan DominiqueCommunications Manager, Office of the Pierce County Council Nearly 300 people died homeless on the streets of Pierce County in 2023; with that sobering statistic, it’s easy to see why the Point in Time Count is considered one of the most important annual activities the County does. This annual census, organized by Pierce …