News Flash

This week Council hit the final stretch of its budget planning process, reviewing required ordinances tied to adoption of the budget, including the 6-year Transportation Improvement Program, or TIP, the 14-year Ferry Program and the Capital Facilities Plan with amendments for 2022. 

These programs – and more importantly adequately funding them – are essential for ensuring Pierce County is set up to not only accommodate future growth, but proactively plan for that growth and fulfill its commitment to providing and meeting infrastructure needs. 

The week concluded with a final Committee of the Whole meeting that focused on the review of 20 amendments to 2021-100, the proposed budget ordinance. Members introduced the amendments to make changes to the proposed budget as submitted by the Executive.  

Following action on the amendments, Council voted to amend the original budget with the newly adopted legislation. From there Council acted on the ordinance as amended, unanimously supporting it with a “Do Pass” recommendation. 

The next stop for the proposed budget is Council’s Nov. 16 regular meeting. That is when it will be presented for Council review, consideration and for the public to weigh in. Public comment can be made in writing, in person or via Zoom through Council’s hybrid meeting format. Learn more here. 

Council will hold its first budget reading Tuesday, followed by a second reading Nov. 23, which is also when Council is expected to adopt the budget.

If you missed any of the conversation you can watch the meetings at the links below (Note: Due to the length of the Nov. 12 meetings, the videos may not be immediately available). 

Nov. 9

• Review of 2021-115 establishing a limited duration utility infrastructure partnership program, and 2021-94, an ordinance adopting the 6-year Transportation Improvement Program and 14-year Ferry Program. Watch the meeting.

Nov. 10

• Review 2021-110s, an ordinance adopting the Pierce County Capital Facilities Plan-2022 Amendments. Watch the meeting.

Nov. 12

• 9:30 a.m.: Review of a series of ordinances tied to adoption of the final budget.
• 1:30 p.m.: Continued review of ordinances tied to adoption of the final budget. 

Visit the Council’s Budget and Priorities website to see the full meeting schedule and to find additional information about the 2022-2023 Biennial Budget planning process.