Art Bus Coming To Ruston

As part of the greater effort to get folks out and enjoying the local arts scene, Tacoma has a long tradition of taking the third Thursday of each month for an Art Walk, now known as the Art Mingle. An off-shoot of this effort is the Art Bus, which takes a group to local galleries on the third Thursday, featuring a celebrity host and a wide variety of art. Today's tour includes a stop at the Blue Octopus on N. Pearl. The gallery owner, Kerry Cole, is a well-known artist. She has another shop in downtown Tacoma but offers wine and painting parties at our location as well. Congratulations on getting the bus out of downtown!

Police Chief Kunkel Leaving

Officer Celis and Chief Kunkel

Ruston Police Chief Jeremy Kunkel is leaving the department this week for a position with Tacoma police. Kunkel has been an officer in Ruston for over 15 years. He has focused on strong community relations and brought much needed stability to the department. Officer Vic Celis will take over as interim chief until a replacement is found.

Ruston Refuses Annexation

The Ruston council passed a resolution at their meeting Tuesday refusing to allow annexation proceedings to continue. The annexation petition from Point Ruston owners seeks to have Tacoma take over the portion of their property that is within Ruston. More details at The News Tribune here.

Problems Found At Point Ruston

The News Tribune has an extensive article today outlining concerns about the propane gas system being used on the Tacoma side of the Point Ruston project. While Tacoma officials believe the system is safe, double the permitted gas was installed without inspection. State and federal officials, whose requirements are more strict, are also now working with the developer to ensure their standards are met. Read more details here... 

Council Votes To Pursue Permitting Interlocal Agreement

The Ruston council voted unanimously tonight to pursue an interlocal agreement with Tacoma that would allow Tacoma's land use department to handle all permitting at the Point Ruston site. Tacoma would enforce Ruston codes within Ruston, but the hope expressed by city leaders is that the process would standardize the process for everyone. The News Tribune has more details here...