Olympia-based WSECU has named Harry Zhu as its incoming president and CEO. This leadership transition occurs alongside a $44 million real estate sale in Lacey and a major infrastructure grant for the Port of Grays Harbor.
Harry Zhu's arrival at WSECU after 13 years at Alliant
WSECU is preparing for a significant era of leadership transition in Olympia. As reported in the recent news roundup, Harry Zhu will take the helm as president and CEO, succeeding Gary Swindler. Swindler’s departure marks the end of a 37-year tenure with the credit union, a period of stability that now gives way to a new strategic direction.
Harry Zhu brings a wealth of institutional experience to the role, having spent the last 13 years at Alliant Credit Union. According to the report, Zhu was specifically drawn to WSECU because of its commitment to member needs and its reputation for innovation . This move suggests that the Olympia-based institution may be looking to modernize its service models or expand its community partnership footprint in the coming years.
The $44 million sale of Lacey's South Sound Center
The commercial real estate landscape in Lacey is seeing a massive shift following the sale of the South Sound Center. The property has been sold for a figure exceeding $44 million, representing one of the most significant local transactions in recent memory. Such a high-value sale often signals strong investor confidence in the South Sound's commercial viability.
This transaction comes at a time when regional economic hubs are seeing increased interest from institutional buyers. While the scale of the $44 million deal is clear, the specific intentions for the South Sound Center remain a point of interest for local business owners and residents alike.
A $6.2 million grant to bolster the Westport fishing fleet
The Port of Grays Harbor has secured a $6.2 million grant aimed at upgrading critical maritime infrastructure.. The funding is earmarked for the replacement of Westport Marina Float 21, a move designed to support the region's expanding commercial fishing fleet. This investment is a vital component of maintaining the economic health of the Grays Harbor waterfront .
Infrastructure improvements of this scale are essential for the longevity of local maritime industries. By modernizing the Westport Marina facilities, the Port is positioning itself to better accommodate the logistical needs of commercial fishermen, ensuring that the local fleet remains competitive and well-supported.
Tacoma's zero-waste revival and Thurston County's golf tournament
Small-scale commercial activity is also seeing a resurgence in Tacoma with the reopening of Hive Provisions + Refillery.. the shop offers a low-waste shopping experience, allowing customers to bring their own containers for personal-care supplies and local goods. This reopening reflects a growing regional trend toward sustainable, circular economies in urban centers.
Thurston County is also set to host a competitive sporting event this month as the American Junior Golf Association (AJGA) brings a tournament to the area. These diverse activities, ranging from eco-conscious retail to organized youth athletics, highlight the varied layers of community engagement currently driving the regional economy.
Who is the buyer behind the $44 million Lacey deal?
The identity of the purchaser for the South Sound Center remains unverified. While the $44 million price tag has been confirmed, the news report does not disclose the name of the entity or individual acquiring the Lacey property. this lack of transparency leaves a significant question regarding whether the site will undergo a major redevelopment or remain under its current operational model .
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