At today’s Tacoma City Council Economic Development Committee meeting, Deputy Mayor Joe Bushnell released his Tacoma Minimum Wage Community and Stakeholder Engagement Report.
Tacoma residents have engaged in conversations over the years about what fair wages mean for workers, families, employers, and the overall health of the local economy. Recognizing the importance of hearing directly from the people and organizations who would be most affected by any potential policy changes, Deputy Mayor Bushnell engaged stakeholders representing a wide cross-section of Tacoma – including small and local businesses, nonprofit organizations, childcare providers, healthcare organizations, and the Tacoma Anchor Network. He also met with labor representatives and students to better understand worker perspectives and the experiences of those entering the workforce.
“Few issues touch as many people in our community as wages, and it is critical that the Council hears from a broad range of stakeholders with lived experience and expertise before considering potential policy changes,” said Deputy Mayor Bushnell. “I am grateful to everyone who took the time to participate and candidly share their experiences, expertise, and ideas. Participants brought a range of perspectives to the table, and while there was not always agreement, what emerged was a shared investment in Tacoma’s future and a desire to contribute thoughtfully to an important community discussion.”
Following today’s presentation of the report to the Economic Development Committee, Deputy Mayor Bushnell will host a policy discussion on potentially raising Tacoma’s minimum wage to $20 per hour at the Council’s July 14, 2026 Economic Development Committee meeting.
Access details are available at cityoftacoma.legistar.com.