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Lacey formalizes poet laureate program; council directs staff to implement in 2026
Summary
Council directed staff to implement a formal Poet Laureate policy in 2026 establishing two‑year terms (maximum two terms), minimum residency, a modest annual program cap ($5,000) from the public art fund, and selection through an advisory group; Cynthia Pratt and advisory boards helped shape the draft.
The Lacey City Council voted unanimously Dec. 2 to direct staff to implement a Poet Laureate policy in 2026 that formalizes program purpose, eligibility, responsibilities, funding and selection.
Assistant City Manager Shannon Kelly Fong summarized the draft policy developed with input from the Commission on Equity and the Lacey Youth Council. Under the proposed policy, the Poet Laureate would serve a two‑year term (eligible for up to two terms, not required to be consecutive), must be a city resident for at least one year, be at least 18 years old, and demonstrate published or performed work and a commitment to community engagement and equity. The policy sets a funding cap of $5,000 per year from the public art fund to support approved activities and allows an optional volunteer stipend.
Responsibilities outlined in the draft include creating and presenting original poems (a suggested minimum of six publications or events), developing and leading at least one community‑based poetry program, maintaining an annual report on community impact, and collaborating with local schools, libraries and cultural partners. The selection process would include an advisory panel (which could include the outgoing Poet Laureate, a representative from local higher education, and local poetry‑organization members) recommending candidates for council appointment.
Current Poet Laureate Cynthia Pratt spoke in support of a formal policy, noting that a stipend and staff support remove barriers to community programming. Council members praised the policy and staff work; one member suggested longer residency requirements but accepted the one‑year standard given parity with other council eligibility. Council moved, seconded and passed the direction for staff to implement the program in 2026.
Next steps: staff to post application materials, coordinate outreach (including recordings and online materials), and bring recommended advisory‑panel processes and timelines to council for final appointment decisions.
