Growing Pains: Stories and Tales from a Young Washington City

Session 4E | Thursday | 10:45 AM – 12:00 PM (PT)

Recently, state land use and planning laws in Washington have become increasingly focused on addressing past wrongs and looking to prepare for the future's climate changes and housing needs. But how does a local government react to these new responsibilities when it is limited in size, resources, and even control over utilities?  How does a city that incorporated after land uses were built out within its borders handle not only realizing the community vision crafted by those who voted to become a city but also opening new communication and involvement opportunities with historically marginalized and underrepresented residents? This session will explore ideas, successes and failures to date, and develop a vision for the future of Lakewood's short life as a City.

Tiffany Speir, J.D., Certified Public Manager (CPM)

Tiffany Speir is an attorney and Certified Public Manager®. A 5th generation Alaskan, she moved to Washington to attend the UPS School of Law. Tiffany’s previous professional positions include Director of Government Relations for Pierce County, Program Manager for the South Sound Military & Communities Partnership, and Executive Officer of the Master Builders Association of Pierce County. Ms. Speir joined the City of Lakewood staff in 2018 and has:- staffed the development and adoption of two City subarea plans, annual Comprehensive Plan updates, a full rewrite of the City’s development code, the 2020 Census, and an updated Shoreline Master Program and a Restoration Plan;- served as the City’s representative on numerous countywide and regional committees, work groups, and task forces; and - serves as the City’s CARES Act and ARPA Program Manager. Tiffany is also a cellist and an E-RYT 500 certified yoga teacher.

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