Tacoma

Economy

Why McMenamins is sticking with Tacoma, despite losses at popular Elks Temple

The century-old Elks Temple in downtown Tacoma cost $30 million to turn into a hotel/restaurant/bar/concert venue. It opened right before the pandemic. Since then, it's been a consistent money-loser for the company that restored it. But the McMenamins company made its name by taking the long view. Company co-founder Mike McMenamin has no intention of changing that now.

Law & Courts

In Tacoma, some volunteers chafe at 'toothless' police oversight role

It’s a pivotal moment for policing in Tacoma, with the departure of three officers acquitted of criminal charges in the death of Manuel Ellis. Tacoma officials say they’ve negotiated a contract with the police union that gives the city important new powers when handling future misconduct allegations. But some community members say the new three-year contract has sidelined their goals for greater transparency by the Tacoma Police Department.

Politics

Seattle’s move to the middle, lower voter turnout, and races still in play: election analysis

The 2023 General Election is over. And because we’re election news junkies, we’re here to catch up on what’s known so far about how Washingtonians voted.

Why housing is on the ballot in Seattle and Tacoma this year

For many across Western Washington, this year's general election ballot includes decisions that will impact one of the issues that voters are most concerned about: housing. In Seattle, there’s a nearly $1 billion dollar levy to build more affordable housing. And in Tacoma, a renter-protection initiative in Tacoma has drawn hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations and spurred public debate.

Trial starts Monday for Tacoma officers charged in the killing of Manny Ellis

Ellis, a 33-year-old Black man, was walking home from a convenience store when he came across police officers. A struggle ensured, and Ellis died at the scene.

Health

Tacoma TB patient eludes authorities

Soundside host Libby Denkmann talks to Matt Driscoll of the News Tribune in Tacoma about the person with a confirmed case of tuberculosis who has evaded authorities for over a year.