At a meeting on Monday, Sept.
28, Port of Olympia Commission members criticized the Washington State Department of Ecology’s communication about a joint resolution to support the Deschutes Estuary Restoration Project—raising concerns over project timing and funding. The commission will revisit the resolution on Oct. 13 to address these planning issues.
A Puget Sound Energy public hearing in Lacey on Sept.
29 drew around 100 residents who raised concerns about steep rate hikes for electricity and natural gas, with the commission set to decide on the proposal in early January + another comment session scheduled for Oct. 7.
The City of Olympia will advance two public art projects as part of the Olympia Crossings initiative at Harrison & Division and Henderson & Eskridge, with concept plans due by June 2027.
A $10,000 mural pilot for Yauger & Sunrise parks was also discussed at a Sept. 23 committee meeting.
Parents and students pressured the board at a meeting to reverse plans to close three elementary schools, stressing each school’s community value + urging careful review of forecasts.
Public hearings are scheduled for Oct. 12, Oct. 15, and Oct. 19, with a final decision expected Nov. 12.
Local groups are hosting a walk and bike audit on Saturday, Oct.
3 to spotlight challenges for nondrivers. Participants gather at 5 p.m. at Heritage Park Fountain (330 5th Ave. SW) before a tour along Capitol Way that wraps up near Vic’s Pizzeria Wildwood around 6 p.m. with food, drinks, and updates on the Capitol Corridor Project.
Olympia School District declared October Disability Inclusion Month after its Sept.
24 board meeting to highlight the right of students with disabilities to participate fully in academics and extracurriculars. The proclamation urges students, families, and educators to work together to promote accessibility and inclusion in schools.
On Sept. 17, OSD Superintendent Patrick Murphy issued an analysis outlining the proposed closure of three elementary schools and its impact on staffing and resources, while a public hearing is scheduled at McKenny Elementary School on Oct.
12 and the board holds the final decision.
The Thurston County Chamber of Commerce said 7,700 people visited the relocated Olympia-Lacey Fan Zone at Port Plaza during the four-day June event, which featured live match screenings and boosted local restaurants and shops.
The report showed a 30% waste diversion (620 lbs recycled).
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