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Council adopts fee increases, comprehensive plan and development‑code updates; library extension approved
Summary
On Dec. 16, 2025, the Tumwater City Council unanimously adopted Resolution R2025‑018 (fee and utility rate updates), Ordinance O2025‑010 (2025 comprehensive plan periodic update) and Ordinance O2025‑011 (development‑code update). The council also authorized a seven‑month extension to the library agreement.
The City of Tumwater City Council adopted a package of ordinances and a fee resolution during its Dec. 16 meeting, taking unanimous voice votes on each action.
Fee resolution (R2025‑018): Finance Director Troy Niemeyer presented the annual fee resolution and recommended utility rate adjustments, lifeline outreach results and discounts tied to housing affordability. Niemeyer said targeted outreach identified 294 households for the Lifeline program; 173 responded and 161 new customers were added to Lifeline, an increase Niemeyer described as a 187% gain from the prior enrollment of 185. Proposed rate changes presented as effective Jan. 1, 2026 included: water +5.5%, stormwater +8%, and sewer +6.5% (presentation also referenced a 3% increase to a 'lot portion' of sewer). Council member Michael Altauser moved to adopt the resolution and authorize the mayor to sign; Council member Angela Jefferson seconded. The motion carried by unanimous voice vote with all present voting aye.
Comprehensive plan periodic update (Ordinance O2025‑010): Associate planner Dana Bowers summarized a multi‑year update that includes a new climate element, an expanded housing element informed by Thurston Regional Planning Council data, and revised transportation tables tied to the transportation impact‑fee program. The planning commission had recommended adoption after a public hearing. Council member Michael Altauser moved adoption as amended to include the revised transportation plan; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously.
Development code periodic update (Ordinance O2025‑011): Erica Smith Erickson presented changes to development regulations including allowances for middle housing types in residential zones, increased ADU size and a possibility of two ADUs per lot, new cohousing/co‑living definitions, and affordable‑density bonuses. Following public review and planning commission recommendation, the council moved, seconded and adopted the ordinance unanimously.
Timberland Regional Library Amendment 1: The council authorized the mayor to sign a first amendment extending the 2015 agreement with Timberland Regional Library for seven months while staff negotiates a five‑year extension. The council approved that authorization.
Consent items: The council approved the consent calendar earlier in the meeting, including minutes, vouchers and contracts (including purchase of body‑worn and vehicle cameras).
