Tacoma-Pierce County labor bodies endorse Yolanda Lewis

Endorsement for Tacoma City Manager comes as the city council prepares to vote on appointment today

The following is from Pierce County CLC: 

TACOMA, WA (March 3, 2026) — Pierce County Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO and the Tacoma Joint Labor Committee (with the exception of IAFF Local 31) today announced their endorsement of Yolanda Lewis for Tacoma City Manager ahead of the City Council’s upcoming vote.

Together, these labor bodies represent thousands of public and private sector workers across Tacoma and Pierce County. Following review of Ms. Lewis’s executive experience and leadership record, the organizations concluded that she brings the disciplined governance, fiscal stewardship, and workforce accountability Tacoma needs at this critical moment.

“The decision before the Council will shape Tacoma’s operational leadership and public service culture for years to come,” said Byron Allen, Business Manager of IBEW Local 483 and Chair of Tacoma Joint Labor, “Ms. Lewis has demonstrated the ability to build and execute strategic plans at scale while maintaining transparency and measurable results.”

“Good leadership begins with good communication,” said Nathe Lawver, Secretary Treasurer of PCCLC. “Working people need a City Manager who will be direct, transparent, and willing to engage in honest dialogue. Yolanda Lewis brings a steady, disciplined approach and a commitment to clear expectations — for staff, for leadership, and for the public.”

The endorsement reflects shared labor values: responsible financial oversight, resilient workforce structures, and leadership grounded in integrity and collaboration.

“At the end of the day, Tacoma’s future depends on trust,” Lawver added. “Trust between the Council and administration. Trust between management and workers. Trust between the city and its residents. We believe Yolanda Lewis has the experience and values to build that trust.”

The Tacoma City Council is expected to vote on the City Manager appointment at its upcoming meeting on Tuesday, March 3.

The Pierce County Central Labor Council is the AFL-CIO local labor council for the second-most populous county in Washington. Learn more.