City Council Approves Funding to Enhance Senior Services in Proposed Partnership With Metro Parks Tacoma
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~ Tacoma City Council Approves Funding to Enhance Senior Services in Partnership with Metro Parks Tacoma

In a unanimous decision, the Tacoma City Council has approved a request from Council Member Sandesh Sadalge for $30,000 in Council Contingency funding to support a smoother transition in senior services. This proposed plan involves partnering with Metro Parks Tacoma to expand services beyond the current Lighthouse and Beacon activity centers, providing seniors aged 50 and older with access to a more comprehensive and accessible network of programs and resources.

Council Member Sadalge emphasized the city's commitment to its seniors, stating, "Tacoma is a city that values its seniors. This proposed transition is about embracing a new and improved approach to senior services." By partnering with Metro Parks Tacoma, the city aims to invest in the well-being of its seniors and ensure they have access to the resources and support they need to thrive in the community.

Mayor Victoria Woodards also expressed her dedication to ensuring seniors' continued access to vital services and social connections. She stated, "We have heard loud and clear that our senior centers are more than just buildings; they are lifelines providing essential services and social interactions that are critical for their well-being." The proposed partnership with Metro Parks Tacoma will expand these services and provide more opportunities for seniors.

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To facilitate this transition, the city has engaged in extensive outreach efforts, including in-person events and meetings with seniors at the Lighthouse and Beacon activity centers. Council Member Sarah Rumbaugh highlighted the importance of these efforts, stating, "As a city, we are doing everything we can to support our seniors as they navigate this proposed change in service location."

Council Member Joe Bushnell also emphasized the impact this partnership will have on Tacoma's aging population. He stated, "Doubling the locations where seniors can receive City-funded services will have a tremendous impact on Tacoma's aging population by allowing them to access services in their own neighborhoods and continue to build on the bonds they've formed with others across our community."

The additional $30,000 in Council Contingency funding will allow the Lighthouse activity center to remain open through January 30, from 10 AM - 2 PM. This will provide seniors from both the Lighthouse and Beacon activity centers with more time to adjust to the new service locations and programs available through Metro Parks Tacoma. During this transition period, lunch will be provided daily at the Lighthouse activity center, and city staff will be available to assist with registration, transportation, and tours of Metro Parks Tacoma's facilities.

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Mayor Woodards also emphasized the importance of being thoughtful and compassionate during this transition for current participants while also welcoming new participants from lower equity neighborhoods. She stated, "My hope is that we will also see an influx of new participants who will be able to access programs in community spaces they already know about and depend on."

More information about this proposed partnership can be found on the City's website. The City Council's decision demonstrates their commitment to enhancing senior services in Tacoma and ensuring that seniors have access to vital resources and support in their community.

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