Meet Board Chair, John O’Loughlin
A lifelong Tacoma resident, Chair O’Loughlin has spent decades serving the community he calls home. As chair of the Tacoma Public Utility Board, he brings a deep appreciation for Tacoma’s history, public service, and long-term planning.
John earned a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from the University of Washington, where he first connected science with environmental stewardship. When Tacoma and the Tideflats became a Superfund site, he felt driven to help restore the community he loves. During more than 30 years with the City of Tacoma’s Environmental Services Department, he contributed to major environmental projects, including the Foss Waterway cleanup.
Today, he helps guide Tacoma Public Utilities with a focus on reliability, sustainability, and customer service.
Here’s what he had to say
Q&A with Chair John O’Loughlin
What makes Tacoma Public Utilities unique?
Chair O’Loughlin points to Tacoma Power’s long history of investing in hydroelectric generation. Combined with the utility’s Bonneville Power Administration contract, those resources help TPU generate revenue that directly benefits customers.
“Owning our own generation truly sets us apart,” he said.
He also highlighted Tacoma Water’s long-term investments in the Green River watershed and groundwater wells.
“Even with the impacts of climate change, Tacoma is well-positioned for the future,” he said. “Customers benefit today from planning done decades ago.”
What has surprised you most about serving on the board?
Without hesitation, Chair O’Loughlin points to Tacoma Rail.
“It’s a fascinating and unique industry,” he said. “And the people there are incredibly smart, kind, and passionate.”
He said learning about railroad operations, regulations, and safety systems has been one of the most interesting parts of his board service.
What do you wish customers knew about TPU employees?
Chair O’Loughlin said TPU employees consistently demonstrate a strong commitment to the community.
“Customer focus isn’t just a slogan here,” he said. “It’s part of the culture and shows up in everything they do.”
He pointed to employee volunteerism and community giving efforts, including TPU’s annual United Way campaign, as examples of that commitment in action.
Why did you want to serve on the Public Utility Board?
Chair O’Loughlin says Tacoma’s history of bold, forward-thinking decisions inspired him to get involved.
From securing the Green River water supply to developing hydroelectric resources and operating the only municipally owned short-line railroad in the nation, he believes Tacoma has a strong legacy of investing in its future.
“Those choices required vision and grit, and they’ve paid off for generations,” he said. “I want to help continue that tradition.”
The Board Chair seat will rotate to another board member in July 2026. Chair O’Loughlin’s current board term runs through 2030. We’re grateful for his leadership and dedication to our community.
To learn more about the Public Utility Board and view the schedule of of their meetings, which are open to the public, visit MyTPU.org/Board.