Council to expand pilot providing free menstrual products in public facilities with $40,000 appropriation

An administration representative presented an ordinance to authorize expenditure of up to $40,000 to expand a pilot program that installs dispensers of menstrual products in public facilities. The pilot began about nine months earlier and initially used approximately $9,000 to place dispensers and stock products; the Municipal Court location was cited as a successful site with high usage. The program has focused on pools and community centers where demand varies seasonally; the requested appropriation would fund additional dispensers and ongoing replenishment.

Council members expressed support. Councilwoman Martinez said she was "super supportive" and asked for usage data; the presenter said the court location and certain pools showed significant use and that staff would provide statistical measures over time. The committee advanced the ordinance on consent.