Chris Bacha's career, spanning nearly four decades, reflects a commitment to public service, a passion for problem-solving, and an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities facing local communities.
His journey began in 1985 as an intern for the Tacoma City Attorney's Office while finishing law school at the University of Puget Sound. This early experience sparked a lasting personal connection to Tacoma and an interest in municipal law.
After a brief stint as a Deputy Prosecutor in Lewis County and part-time faculty member at Centralia Community College, he returned to Tacoma. Drawn back to Tacoma by the dynamism and impact of working directly within local government where policies, problem-solving and action directly benefit the diverse communities the City of Tacoma serves, he served as an Assistant City Attorney for the Tacoma City Attorney's Office for over a decade. In this role, he tackled a wide range of legal issues. He provided legal counsel on matters relating to police, construction and engineering, economic development, finance, libraries, asset management and franchise administration.
He later broadened his experience with the municipal law firm, Kenyon Disend, PLLC, and served as the City Attorney for the cities of Orting, Burien, Black Diamond, DuPont and Algona. He also provided legal counsel to the cities of Federal Way, Kent, Kirkland, Lakewood, Olympia, Puyallup, Seattle, Spokane and Toppenish, as well as Mason County, Sound Transit, the Snohomish County Public Utility District, and the Tax Portal Agency.
The depth and breadth of his experience with various communities across Washington state deepened his understanding of the diverse needs and challenges faced by local governments.
When he accepted the position of Tacoma's Chief Deputy City Attorney, he was entrusted with the responsibility of supervising staff, mentoring young attorneys, and providing legal counsel on special projects as well as complex litigation, environmental services and supervisory administration matters.
As Tacoma's current City Attorney, he remains committed to making life better for the individuals, families and businesses that call Tacoma home. Recognizing that Tacoma's cultural diversity is its greatest strength - a professional perspective that reflects the values of his own blended family - he remains committed to advocating for the best interests of the entire Tacoma community, ensuring a vibrant and prosperous future for all.
He is admitted to practice in Washington state and before the United States District Court, Western and Eastern Districts of Washington, the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, and the United States Supreme Court.
Education
- University of Puget Sound School of Law, Tacoma, Washington, J.D. 1986
- University of Washington, Seattle, Washington: Society and Justice, B.A. 1983, Cum Laude
Membership / Affiliation
- Washington State Bar Association
- Washington State Association of Municipal Attorneys