Museum staff gave a status update on the Lacey museum project and collection plans, saying the office area at the new site is not yet ready and that some site work remains before staff can move in. While the move is delayed, the museum has ordered a movable I‑shaped wall system and platforms for exhibits and is preparing an opening exhibit called "Bits and Bobs" to display small objects from the collection.

Staff described a planned aviation exhibit focused on early aviation through World War II that will profile local aviators (including women and people of color) and tie to archival donations such as the Gwen Hicks collection. Staff said the aviation exhibit is more likely to open in the fall, while the temporary opening exhibit will allow the museum to open earlier.

Staff noted a partnership with the Lacey Makerspace to build props for exhibits (the Makerspace will supply labor at a discount if the museum pays for materials). They also named staff involved in exhibit preparation: Felicia, Rova Cameron and Olivia Moore.

On funding and scheduling, staff said the museum project finance will not be discussed at this Commission meeting because the Parks funding work group is finalizing recommendations; the city manager asked that the museum topic go to council only after the Lacey Community Foundation completes a five‑year fundraising plan, expected in roughly two months. Commissioners asked about the city’s capital facilities plan and staff pointed out entries for 2027–2028 and noted the plan lists dollar amounts (staff quoted "$7,600,000 each year" as shown in the plan). Staff said they would send a link to the capital facilities plan and the council packet when available.

Staff also reported ongoing historic preservation assessments (Jacob Smith House, McKinney House, Long Lake House) and work with the Lacey Women's Club to revise deed language to remove historical‑use restrictions. Staff estimated preservation reports would be requested to finish by the end of March.

Staff said the kiosk/rack display is moving toward being opened and that a spring opening (March) for the Bell Center area was a reasonable expectation but not yet confirmed.