Across Washington, cities are grappling with how to create more housing. A policy called Home in Tacoma changed zoning allowances in the city to allow for more houses on one lot.

The South Sound public health agency is expected to lay off 22 employees. A department spokesperson said this was due to expected federal and state funding cuts.

Anders Ibsen ran against Tacoma City Councilmember John Hines to be the community's next mayor. On Thursday Ibsen led Hines by over 6,000 votes, with roughly 1,500 ballots left to count.

As of Wednesday Anders Ibsen had more than 54% of the tallied votes. Tacoma Council Member John Hines had about 45%, but so far has not conceded the election.

Labor groups back Proposition 1, which would raise Olympia's minimum wage and add worker protections. Opponents argue that local employers won’t be able to handle the costs.

The shutdown is being felt across Thurston and Pierce counties. Roughly 14,000 federal workers aren't getting paychecks, and about 35,000 households rely on SNAP benefits.

The Tacoma City Council has expanded the city's camping ban, adding more areas where homeless encampments are prohibited. The proposal passed by a 5-4 vote.

Tacoma District 1 Councilmember John Hines and former Councilmember Anders Ibsen are running to help lead Tacoma. The next mayor will take part in important decisions, such as choosing the new city manager.

The small, clumsy fish isn’t the strongest or fastest creature living in Puget Sound. But it has developed other tools to survive in rough waters.

DéVonté Parson started Pro Se Potential after mentoring others while he was in jail. He now shares the lessons he's learned with teens.