Tacoma's leadership is initiating steps to invigorate its services for the senior community by entering into a partnership with Metro Parks. This move is designed to reach more members of the community by not only expanding service options but also by lowering the age of eligibility from 60 to 50. Mayor Victoria Woodards has expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "This partnership agreement, once finalized, will represent a significant step forward in our commitment to providing exceptional services for our seniors."
The proposed collaboration is expected to offer a variety of benefits, according to a recent press release. These include enhancing the range of programs available to the senior population and tapping into Metro Parks Tacoma's community centers, which boast better public transport options, for increased program accessibility. However, an official partnership agreement is still awaiting finalization.
Deputy Mayor John Hines relayed the shared objectives of both the city and Metro Parks Tacoma: "We are excited to explore this partnership with Metro Parks Tacoma," he remarked, noting the aim to enrich the lives of the community's seniors. In practical terms, these enhancements mean seniors can expect to find more tailored classes, workshops, and a broader array of leisure and learning activities.
With the arrangement yet to be inked, strategies are already being considered for the current senior facilities owned by the city. Possibilities for repurposing these properties include creating affordable housing units, supportive housing or allocating the space for essential City operations. All these considerations come in the wake of what the future partnership is set to bring, aligning with City Council priorities. Users of the traditional Beacon and Lighthouse senior facilities were notified by letter on October 17 about the upcoming changes, and senior engagement meetings are scheduled for December following the partnership's official commencement.
