New reports say grease policies may be blocking small business growth in Tacoma

Tacoma can sometimes feel like a place for the little-er guy. Where an aspiring entrepreneur can start a small business without the hyper expensive rents and other daily costs of a city like Seattle.  But, according to recent reporting by the News Tribune, one city regulation may be stifling small food businesses in Grit City. And it has to do with some of the … greasier parts of the job. Most cities, including Seattle and Tacoma, require restaurants to install machines that prevent grease, fat, and other materials from washing down the drains and into the sewer system. But, what those traps look like, and how much they cost, can vary greatly, depending on where a business is located. And that can mean business owners look elsewhere when considering a new space. Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. Guest: Kristine Sherred, Food Reporter at The News Tribune Related Links:  Rigging the system.’ Is Tacoma’s grease-trap policy killing its small-restaurant scene? - The News Tribune Tacoma contends restaurant grease traps are vital. Is its oversight of them lacking? - The News Tribune As pandemic ravaged restaurants, Tacoma tightened rules for offering food delivery - The News Tribune City of Tacoma response to grease trap stories, courtesy of Maria Lee (Media & Communications Office):  The City recognizes that for new small business owners, the cost and logistical challenges of installing a GGI can be significant. The policy aims to balance environmental protection with economic development. While the City has worked diligently with this community on outreach, the City also recognizes that the challenges faced by some small business owners suggests a need for ongoing dialogue between the City and the business community to explore potential solutions that support both objectives. At this point in time, staff are analyzing potential changes to the City’s Side-Sewer and Sanitary Sewer Availability Manual and FOG Program. The need for these changes was recognized in 2023 as part of broader City comprehensive planning efforts, and analysis began in earnest as early as the second quarter of 2024. Once staff has completed its analysis, and those recommendations are presented to the City Manager and the City Council, that same information will also be shared with the public. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.