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The Gig Harbor housing market showed resilience in 2024, with median home prices rising by 5.8% despite elevated interest rates and low real estate activity. Home sales remained below average, primarily due to homeowners hesitating to sell amid high mortgage rates, while critically low inventory levels contributed to a competitive seller's market.
The Gig Harbor Municipal Court has resumed normal operations following a network security incident that occurred on November 4, 2024. Key updates include the resumption of hearings, the reopening of the customer service counter, and the acceptance of electronic filings, reflecting the court's commitment to efficiency and accessibility for the community.
The City of Gig Harbor is hosting a blood drive on January 27, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Civic Center, responding to an urgent need for blood donations due to severe winter weather and wildfires. Residents are encouraged to schedule their donations to help alleviate the emergency shortage of platelets and specific blood types.
The Caldwells, renowned metal artists, are set to install a large compass rose artwork at the roundabout of Harborview Drive and Stinson Avenue in Gig Harbor. Their innovative approach, which engages children through embedded sculptures in the pavement, embodies a blend of artistic creativity and local history, estimated to cost $21,616.65, funded by the City’s Public Art Fund.
Roomba, a newly discovered Pacific red octopus, has found a home at Harbor WildWatch’s Marine Life Center in Gig Harbor. Discovered during a beach cleanup, this tiny octopus will eventually be moved to a larger tank, where staff anticipate her readiness to lay eggs. Visitors may catch a glimpse of Roomba, but her nocturnal nature means she could be shy.
The Peninsula School District’s Transitional Kindergarten program, which promotes outdoor learning and caters to children needing extra support before entering kindergarten, faces a $21 million funding gap in Washington state. The program has shown significant success, with data indicating that students who attend TK are better prepared for kindergarten compared to their peers. Local families face challenges with limited childcare options, highlighting the critical need for continued support for this educational initiative.
A popular Transitional Kindergarten program in Pierce County is at risk of losing funding despite its success in preparing children for kindergarten. The program, which emphasizes outdoor learning, has seen increased enrollment but faces a projected $21 million funding gap from the state. Local educational leaders stress the need for continued support to expand access to early childhood education.
U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer reflects on his six terms in Congress, emphasizing his commitment to job creation and community engagement in Washington's 6th Congressional District. As he transitions to a new role at The Rockefeller Foundation, Kilmer shares insights into his legislative achievements, including economic development initiatives and support for local veterans.
U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer, who served Washington’s 6th Congressional District from 2013 to 2025, has announced his departure from Congress to join The Rockefeller Foundation. Throughout his tenure, Kilmer focused on job creation and economic opportunities, significantly impacting the local community with initiatives that supported veterans and improved infrastructure. His career is marked by a commitment to accessibility, accountability, and fostering economic growth in his district.
A public menorah in Uptown Gig Harbor was vandalized on the first day of Hanukkah, prompting an investigation by local police as a potential hate crime. Rabbi Mendel Kesselman from the Chabad of Pierce County emphasized community support in the wake of the incident, which has sparked discussions about the importance of tolerance and kindness. Mayor Mary Barber expressed her horror at the vandalism, affirming that hate has no place in the community.