Mar 06, 2026

Western Specialty Contractors

Western Specialty Contractors has been sold to employees through an ESOP. ButcherJoseph & Co. served as the exclusive financial advisor on the transaction, Founded in 1915, Western is a century-old company with a national footprint and a reputation for technical excellence across restoration and specialty construction. The ESOP ensures long-term continuity, preserves the company's independence, and aligns ownership with the employees who have driven Western's growth for more than 100 years.

ButcherJoseph & Co. Director Rick Hennessey noted that Western is “a textbook example of a company whose culture and values align naturally with employee ownership.”

Western CEO Ben Bishop Jr. said the move “recognizes the contributions of our employees in a meaningful way while positioning the company for long-term stability and growth.”

The transaction provides Western with a tax-advantaged structure that supports continued investment in operations, leadership development, and strategic growth initiatives.

Cairncross & Hempelmann

Cairncross & Hempelmann announced that Duncan Greene has joined the firm's Land Use & Zoning Group, further strengthening its capabilities in land use, zoning, and development matters across the Puget Sound region.

Duncan brings over 20 years of experience advising property owners, developers and businesses on complex land use and permitting issues, including project entitlements, regulatory compliance, and navigating local approval processes. His practice focuses on helping clients move projects efficiently from planning through approval, with strategic guidance grounded in a deep understanding of Washington's regulatory framework.

“With more than two decades of experience advising clients on complex land use, environmental and regulatory issues, Duncan is an exciting new addition to our land use team,” said Randall Olsen, Cairncross & Hempelmann partner and Land Use & Zoning Practice group leader. “He expands our capabilities and shares our commitment to providing exceptional service to our clients.”

Mar 05, 2026

Walker & Dunlop

Washington

With its headquarters in Maryland, Walker & Dunlop announced this week that Mark Washington has joined the firm's Seattle office to help lead multifamily sales. He makes the move from CBRE. W&D's Kris Mikkelsen said in a statement, “Mark's experience and advisory approach align perfectly with ours, and we're excited to have him lead our efforts in the Pacific Northwest. We gained significant market share nationally in 2025, and with Mark leading the charge in a new market for Walker & Dunlop, we're confident that momentum will continue.”

Lee & Associates

Brussa

Lee & Associates announced this week that its John Brussa has been promoted to principal at the brokerage. He's been with Lee since 2019, and concentrates on the industrial and office sectors. Lee's Jim Bowles said, “John continues to raise the bar for our team and the region. This promotion reflects both his hard work and the high esteem in which he's held throughout the industry.” Lee further notes that Brussa is the youngest principal in the firm's regional history.

JLL

Curry

JLL's value and risk advisory group has various members and different offices across the U.S. Here in Seattle, JLL announced that Becci Curry has joined that office; she makes the move from CBRE. She said in a statement, “I am excited to partner with our clients to navigate the evolving landscape of risk, regulation and ESG, and to work with the exceptional talent at JLL to set new standards for the industry.”

LMC Construction

Newcombe

LMC Construction has appointed Dale Newcombe as vice president, Washington Market. Bringing 43 years of construction and development experience, Newcombe will lead strategic growth across Washington, strengthen client partnerships, and support the expansion of LMC's ongoing presence.

He previously spent more than two decades with Walsh Construction in Tacoma, serving in leadership roles and guiding housing and mixed-use projects. Newcombe also contributes to community initiatives as a board member-elect for the Tacoma/Pierce County Affordable Housing Consortium. “Dale understands the Washington market and the people who shape it, and that makes him a strong addition to our team,” said Chris Duffin, President & CEO of LMC. “His steady support of mentorship and community work reflects what we value at LMC.”

Tacoma Neighborhood & Community Services

Esparza

Tacoma City Council confirmed Toni Esparza as the new Neighborhood & Community Services Director. Esparza has more than 25 years of leadership experience in human services, youth development, community safety, and equity-centered systems change. She will step into her new role at the city of Tacoma on March 23, following her tenure as assistant director of the city of Bellevue's Parks and Community Services Department.

The Neighborhood & Community Services Department works to build healthy and successful neighborhoods and households through leading community problem solving, funding human services, and partnering with community members to facilitate safe, clean, and attractive neighborhoods.

Tacoma Public Utility Board

Tacoma City Council is currently seeking applicants to fill a position on the Public Utility Board.

The Public Utility Board is comprised of five members who are nominated by the Government Performance and Finance Committee and appointed by a majority vote of the city council. The membership term is five years and is composed of Tacoma residents.

The Public Utility Board acts as the governing body for Tacoma Public Utilities and oversees the management and operation of Tacoma Public Utilities, which includes Tacoma Power, Tacoma Water, and Tacoma Rail.

Applications must be submitted to the City Clerk's Office by noon on March 25 at: http://tacoma.gov/cbcapplication