TACOMA, Wash. – The City Council has passed an ordinance to set April 1, 2024 as the effective date for the annexation of the Manitou area, an unincorporated “island” in Pierce County bounded by Lakewood Drive W, 65th Street W, 70th Street W, and the county and city boundaries to the east of 52nd Avenue W.
This annexation – which will ensure the area’s urban development is appropriately supported by urban governmental services – is aligned with State Growth Management Act priorities.
In December 2021, the City of Tacoma entered into an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) with Pierce County as required by state law. With the ILA, the City expressed its shared commitment to working in partnership with Pierce County to move forward with the annexation. The ILA included a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which, along with extensive outreach to residents and businesses in the Manitou area prior to its annexation, will ensure a smooth and effective transition.
“I am proud of the work of our many partners, organizations, and staff that diligently brought this planned annexation area into the city after an intentional process of engaging our newest residents,” said Mayor Victoria Woodards. “I want to extend a warm welcome to the residents of the Manitou neighborhood who will enjoy the same access to services, facilities, infrastructure, employment opportunities, and opportunities to engage their government that Tacomans across our community do.”
“I can’t wait for the residents and businesses of Manitou to join our vibrant city,” said Deputy Mayor Kristina Walker. “I have no doubt that this transition will ensure a brighter future for all of us, and I look forward to connecting with community members in Manitou to ensure I understand your neighborhoods’ specific needs, interests, and unique characteristics.”
“This annexation has been a long time coming, and I want to thank the many partners, organizations, and staff that made this process successful by focusing on the residents that are impacted by this change and ensuring they have a positive experience,” said District 5 Council Member Joe Bushnell. “I look forward to engaging our newest residents in the important conversations our community is having to shape the future of Tacoma.”
More information, including a community FAQ, is available at cityoftacoma.org/manitou.
