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EVETTE TEMPLE

Lacey City Council Position 6

EVETTE TEMPLE

Lacey City Council Position 6

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Lacey has made strong progress with housing policy, by amending zoning codes to allow multifamily development in areas previously zoned for single-family use. In 2024, the city up-zoned low-density neighborhoods to permit 3–6 units per lot and introduced fee waivers and tax incentives for private affordable housing developers. Development and permit fees are also waived for non-profits such as Habitat for Humanity and Homes First.

Looking ahead, expanding condominium development could be a key opportunity. Condos offer attainable home ownership options, especially for families and seniors looking to downsize. They also support the city’s up-zoning and Missing Middle Housing goals—an important consideration as developable land becomes increasingly limited.

SMALL BUSINESS

Small businesses are the backbone of both Lacey and the nation. For over 15 years, I have consistently referred entrepreneurs and investors to Lacey as the place to do business. Thurston Economic Development Council located at South Puget Sound Community College in Lacey, and initiatives like the Food Truck Court and SWAE Pop-Up events, the city is on the right path.

As a small business owner myself, I understand the challenges of red tape and bureaucracy. That’s one of the reasons I'm running for City Council: to keep Lacey business-friendly and to ensure small businesses remain a priority—especially with over half the council seats up for election.

Supporting small businesses in Lacey means streamlining regulations, investing in infrastructure, promoting local commerce, and offering strategic financial support. These businesses are essential to jobs, community character, and economic vitality.

Proposed initiatives include:

Creating a Small Business Advisory Committee
Appointing a Small Business Ombudsperson
Revisiting zoning and parking codes to reduce barriers for storefronts and home-based businesses.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY

Over the past year, I have had the opportunity to work closely with various members of the Lacey City staff, including Finance Manager Troy Woo, whose expertise is widely respected. As Chair of the Lacey City Parks, Culture, and Recreation Funding Workgroup, I gained valuable insight into the city's operations and deep appreciation for the caliber of its staff.

Looking ahead, I will be focusing on several key priorities:

Long-Term Financial Planning: While Lacey uses multiyear budgeting and is working on their 20 years plan; a forecast using different methods such as actuaries would improve planning for public safety, infrastructure, and housing, while strengthening bond ratings and public trust.

Stronger Reserve Policies: In addition to maintaining the 15% general reserve, establishing a separate economic stabilization or "rainy day" fund would enhance fiscal resilience.

Smart Growth Management: Rapid development in areas like Hawks Prairie and Gateway brings both opportunities and costs. Implementing smart growth policies ensures that infrastructure, zoning, and impact fees are aligned to support sustainable development.

Fiscal Responsibility: True fiscal responsibility means not just spending less, but spending wisely planning ahead, investing strategically, and promoting equitable, long-term growth.

HUMAN SERVICES

With over 15 years of volunteer experience in Human Services across Thurston County, I was honored to be appointed to the City of Lacey’s newly formed Human Services Commission.

While Lacey does not directly provide most services, the city plays a critical role in funding, coordinating, and advocating for support in areas like housing, health, food security, safety, and mental wellness.

I believe continued regional collaboration is essential, given how interconnected the cities are. My vision includes hosting an annual Human Services Summit to strengthen coordination across agencies serving veterans, seniors, children, individuals with developmental disabilities, and more.