Stay informed about government news and updates in Olympia, WA.
The Olympia Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on January 6 regarding the Capital Mall Triangle subarea plan, which aims to develop a dense residential neighborhood near the mall. While building height limits will increase, city officials note that significant development is unlikely soon due to high interest rates and economic conditions.
Tim Lang has been appointed as the new secretary of the Washington State Department of Corrections by Gov.-elect Bob Ferguson. With 16 years of experience in the Attorney General's Office, Lang focuses on rehabilitation reforms to enhance safety and reduce recidivism within the corrections system.
President Joe Biden's recent pardon of his son Hunter has sparked bipartisan criticism, highlighting the contentious nature of presidential pardons. Historically, only William Henry Harrison and James Garfield did not issue pardons during their presidencies, primarily due to their brief time in office. This article explores the nuances of presidential clemency and the unique circumstances surrounding these two presidents.
Governor Jay Inslee has announced a hiring freeze on nonessential positions within Washington state agencies due to a projected budget shortfall of $10 billion to $12 billion. This directive also includes a pause on noncritical service contracts and equipment spending, while allowing for the filling of essential vacancies. Inslee has encouraged other state agencies and institutions to adopt similar measures for immediate savings.
Washington Governor Jay Inslee has ordered a freeze on nonessential hiring and spending across state agencies due to a projected budget shortfall of $10 to $12 billion. Essential positions and critical expenditures are exempt from this freeze, which aims to promote fiscal responsibility.
The Olympia Police Department plans to lease 12 electric vehicles, funded by the county's Public Safety Tax, to improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions. The City Council will vote on this proposal on December 10.
The Olympia Police Department plans to add 12 electric vehicles to its fleet, funded by the county's Public Safety Tax. This proposal, set for a vote by the Olympia City Council on December 10, aims to enhance operational efficiency and reduce emissions, addressing issues with current hybrid models.
The Olympia City Council is accepting applications for Position #5, previously held by Lisa Parshley, who will join the State Legislature in January. Interested candidates must submit their applications by December 13, including a resume, cover letter, and proof of voter registration. The new appointee will serve until December 31, 2025, unless elected in the upcoming fall election.
The Olympia Fire Department, led by Fire Chief Matthew Morris, is dedicated to exceptional service and community care in Olympia, Washington. In 2023, the department responded to over 16,000 service calls and introduced new basic life support units and the CARES program to enhance emergency response and non-emergency assistance for residents.
The Olympia Police Department is implementing reforms to enhance transparency, accountability, and community trust in response to public outcry after George Floyd's murder. Initiatives include hiring a Civilian Police Auditor, developing body-worn camera policies, and updating crowd management practices to align with community expectations.