LaceyLife – November 2022
Take Part in the City Budget Process
The annual budget is the most important document the City produces. It acts as a financial road map, outlining City spending, service delivery, and Council priorities for the year.
The budget process begins in July and continues into the fall. The budget provides easily accessible information on revenues we expect for the year, where the money comes from, and how we plan to use the money in the most cost-effective manner.
As we prepare the City’s annual budget, we invite and encourage public involvement. We take pride in our commitment to continue to innovate and explore ways to leverage our public dollars to maximize the benefit to our community and welcome your input. You can view the Proposed 2023 Budget, here.
We invite comment at the public hearings listed below.
- Thursday, Nov. 3 Revenue Sources
- Thursday, Nov. 17 Total Budget Overview
- Thursday, Dec. 1 Final Budget
The City Council plans to adopt the Final 2023 Budget at the Thursday, December 15 meeting.
The public hearings take place at 6 p.m. during the City Council meetings. In-person and online attendance options are available. To find out more, visit the Council meeting webpage.
Compassionate Community Partners Extend Campaign
The City and our community partners — North Thurston School District and Lacey South Sound Chamber — are excited to continue The Spirit of Giving Back campaign for our 6th annual Compassionate Community Project.
We’ve decided to continue with last year’s theme since COVID-19 made volunteering a challenge. The campaign will highlight the many ways students, community groups, employees, individuals, businesses, clubs, and organizations give back and connect with our community. You can sign up for an existing volunteer opportunity or create your own — the possibilities are endless.
Throughout the year, visit our Compassionate Community webpage for information about ways you can give back and contribute to this year’s project. If you plan to take part in a volunteer activity, please contact us at (360) 491-0314 or PublicAffairs@ci.lacey.wa.us to get a Spirit of Giving Back banner to use in your photos. We would love to include your efforts in our campaign
Signing Santa: A Unique Holiday Experience for All
Join us Friday, December 2, 6:30 p.m. at Chambers Prairie Elementary (6501 Virginia St. SE, Lacey) for, Signing Santa, a special holiday event. This free, annual event provides children an opportunity to gather and experience the spirit of giving, make new friends, and promote awareness of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community. The event is open to all families in the South Sound area.
To see all Lacey Parks, Culture and Recreation Department’s holiday offerings, visit our Event webpage.
Parksploration: Woodland Creek Community Park
We are so fortunate to have access to one of the State’s best municipal park systems right here in Lacey! Lacey’s Park System has just under 1,200 acres of park land and open spaces, miles of ADA-accessible trails, hiking trails, several community buildings, and a premier regional athletic complex.
Woodland Creek Community Park has something for just about everyone! Seniors can take part in a variety of social activities, classes, noon meals, support groups, and more at the Virgil S. Clarkson Senior Center; you can rent the Lacey Community Center for special-occasion gatherings, trainings, meetings, etc.; or you might attend a recreation program, class, or event at the “White House.”
Woodland Creek runs through the park with Longs Pond as its focal point. The park also has large grassy areas, play structures, picnic shelters with BBQ grills, nature trails, ADA-accessible paved trails, and restrooms. Disc golf enthusiasts can enjoy a junior-level, 14-hole course, driving range, and putting green while visiting the Park, as well.
Fishing at Longs Pond
Longs Pond offers year-round fishing. The pond and dock are open during normal park hours. You do not need a fishing license, however angler must meet one of the following:
- Under 15 years old
- Over 70 years old
- Have a disability and possess a designated harvester companion card
Note: These fishing regulations are established by the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife.
Get Ready for Winter Weather: Prepare Now!
Snow, ice, and extreme weather can make it hard to get around. With a little preparation before the cold weather hits, we can all stay safer on the roads. To reduce the risks of winter driving:
- Winterize your vehicle to help ensure it is safe to drive during winter weather.
- Check current road conditions and weather forecast before beginning your trip.
- Follow safe, winter-driving tips, including allowing extra time to get to your destination.
What to Expect from the City During a Winter Storm
During a snowstorm, our crews work hard to clear and maintain priority routes for emergency vehicles. Once priority routes are cleared, our crews begin working on secondary routes to provide better access for transit, schools, and commuters. If snowfall continues, priority routes may require repeated plowing, which may delay secondary route clearing.
The City does not have the resources to plow neighborhood streets. However, Homeowners Associations (HOAs) can contact Public Works to learn about our HOA Snow Plowing Policy.
For more information, including our Snow and Ice Response Map, visit our Emergency Management and Preparedness webpage.
Save up to $150 on a Smart Thermostat and Lower Your Energy Costs!
Did you know Puget Sound Energy (PSE) has great deals on lighting and other products to make your home more comfortable, warm, and energy-efficient — including saving up to $150 on smart thermostats?
What is a Smart Thermostat?
Smart thermostats work with your existing heating system to help you keep tabs on the temperature in your home. They are a great way to reduce energy use and lower your bill.
To learn more about energy-efficient products and how you can save, visit PSE-Marketplace.
View the LaceyLife November 2022 pdf.
