City Council Seeks to Broaden Inclusion of Seniors on Tacomas Committees, Boards, and Commissions

The Tacoma City Council has voted to prioritize the inclusion of seniors aged 65 and older on the city's Committees, Boards, and Commissions (CBCs), marking a significant move towards inclusivity. This resolution, led by Council Member John Hines, comes after extensive discussions with seniors who expressed a desire for a more meaningful role in city governance. Currently, more than half of the CBCs do not include any senior members, prompting the need for change. The resolution mandates that at least one senior member be included on each CBC whenever possible, ensuring that the voices of older residents are heard in discussions that affect their community. Council Members Joe Bushnell, Sarah Rumbaugh, and Sandesh Sadalge emphasized the value of seniors' perspectives, particularly in addressing challenges related to mobility, connectivity, and safety.

This initiative aligns with Tacoma's broader goals of fostering an inclusive environment and supporting its aging population. The City Manager will keep the Council updated on senior representation, reinforcing the importance of this demographic in shaping city policies. Ultimately, this resolution aims to ensure that Tacoma remains a vibrant and supportive city for all its residents, regardless of age.