Skagit County Commissioners Remain Committed to Senior Services and Meals on Wheels

The Skagit County Commissioners issued a statement reaffirming their dedication to senior services and Meals on Wheels amidst a projected budget deficit of over $1. 7 million for 2026. This represents a more than 100% increase in program costs over the last ten years, driven by rising demand and expenses. The Meals on Wheels program, partially funded by the Older Americans Act, has seen no inflationary increases in federal allocations, leading to increased reliance on local fundraising efforts. While county officials are considering adjustments such as reducing meal deliveries or transitioning operations to a nonprofit, they emphasize that no closures of senior centers or terminations of the Meals on Wheels program are planned.

The county has consistently raised funds to support these essential services, showcasing community involvement. The Mount Vernon Senior Center, the only county-owned facility, requires significant repairs, complicating future planning. As discussions continue, the county aims to balance maintaining these critical services with fiscal responsibility. Local partnerships with nonprofits could offer potential solutions for sustaining meal and programming services in the community.