Goodwill receives special use permit for new Pasco retail store and job services

The Pasco Hearing Examiner meeting on July 9, 2025, focused on the approval of a special use permit for Goodwill Industries, which aims to establish a retail store and employment connection center in Pasco. This initiative is expected to create 30 new jobs and generate ongoing sales tax revenue for the city.

During the meeting, representatives from Goodwill expressed gratitude for the staff's recommendation to approve the permit. They highlighted the dual purpose of the new facility: not only will it serve as a retail outlet, but it will also provide specialized employment services for individuals with disabilities and others facing employment barriers. These services will include job placement assistance, training programs, and digital literacy classes.

The discussion also touched on the history of the location, noting that a similar special use permit was approved in 2020 but lapsed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Goodwill representatives confirmed that the current proposal is similar to the previous one, albeit slightly smaller.

No opposition was voiced during the meeting, and the evidentiary record for the application was closed without further testimony. The approval of this permit marks a significant step in Goodwill's mission to support the local community through employment opportunities.

In addition to the Goodwill discussion, the meeting briefly addressed a separate application for a zoning change on Webster Court, indicating ongoing development considerations in the area. The outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping Pasco's economic landscape and community services in the near future.