Seattle City Council parks committee chair Sally Bagshaw will be at Miller Park Community Center Wednesday night to lead a community discussion about how the city can reshape its centers in a budget environment that continues to tighten.
On her blog, Bagshaw writes: “The bottom line is very simple and stark: the cost to run the centers far exceeds revenue brought in from center programs. This meeting is one of a series of first steps in a comprehensive attempt at exploring alternatives that would offer continued services for the public, while reducing costs. New methods of management, staffing, fundraising and partnerships will be explored. If you’ve got ideas and want to share them, please join us.”
Details on the Community Center Partnership plan — complete with a massive timeline document — that will be unveiled at Miller can be found here http://www.seattle.gov/council/issues/ccpartnership/default.htm
Help shape the future of Seattle’s Community Centers
Seattle City Councilmember Bagshaw encourages communities to contribute ideas
SEATTLE – Throughout last year’s budget process, Seattle City Council heard from hundreds of people about the value of programming at their Community Centers. As a result of the concerns voiced, Council passed a Statement of Legislative Intent asking the Department of Parks and Recreation to examine how Community Centers are operated.
Beginning on February 2, Parks will embark on a citywide conversation to look at the future of community centers, specifically how to continue important services while reducing costs and explore long-term, sustainable programming models.
“We heard from the community about the value of their centers and we hope to see those same individuals on February 2, so we can continue this much needed conversation,” said Councilmember Sally Bagshaw, chair of the Parks and Seattle City Committee. “Now is the time to make a difference in your neighborhood.”
Seattle residents are invited to share their feedback on Seattle’s Community Centers and join Councilmember Bagshaw at the kick-off event for this process:
When: Wednesday, February 2, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Miller Community Center, 330 19th Avenue East
For questions or additional information, please contact Councilmember Bagshaw’s office at 206-684-8801or visit www.seattle.gov/council