By Spanaway Concerned Citizens

As concerned citizens, we rely on our elected officials to make decisions regarding topics that significantly impact the well-being of our communities — addressing critical issues such as providing housing for our chemically dependent, chronically homeless individuals is undoubtedly important. However, does this effort justify compromising regional environmental integrity and public health — sacrifices that endanger the ecological balance of our communities? Such risks threaten irreplaceable wetlands, endangered species habitats, and, most crucially, the protection of vital water resources that sustain life and ensure the long-term health of our region.

On November 13, 2024, Spanaway Concerned Citizens (SSC) filed formal appeals against the Tacoma Rescue Mission’s “early” fill and grade permit and its driveway approach permit. In conjunction with these appeals, SSC sought a stop work order to prevent the premature removal of old growth forest on the property. Despite the submission of three documented violations against TRM, the requested stop work order was not granted. Instead, TRM was granted permission to continue its activities unabated. A hearing to address these appeals has been scheduled for January 22, 2025. (Detailed below)

It has become abundantly clear that the Good Neighbor Village is not neighborly. As an Executive priority, the project may warrant expedited consideration, but this designation does not exempt it from strict compliance with Federal law or state and municipal codes.

This is the Right Idea – Wrong Location!

Now is the time to take a stand against reckless decision-making and protect our precious resources for future generations. 

Please join us! In-person or via Zoom on Wednesday, January 22nd at 9:00am for the Administrative Hearing. This has no public comment, but your opinion matters! Please show your support by listening in.

Link to staff report.          Link to County Exhibits           

Link to TRM Exhibits             Link to agenda

Your support is both essential and deeply appreciated. Please donate through our website or by mail using the provided details below. All donations go directly towards legal fees.

WE HAVE TWO GIVING OPTIONS:

#1 –  Directly to Spanaway Concerned Citizens

        ONLINE:   Spanaway Concerned Citizens Website
        MAIL:  Spanaway Concerned Citizens | P.O. Box 562 | Spanaway, WA.  98387 
         *We are a 501-C4. All Contributions are not tax deductible.

#2 – Through our partner organization, Friends of Spanaway Lake (Tax Deductible Option)        

        ONLINE:  Friends of Spanaway Lake Donations  
        MAIL: Friends of Spanaway Lake | P.O. Box 1042 | Spanaway, WA. 98387
         *Please include a note designating SCC as the beneficiary. 
         *Make checks payable to FOSL.