West Linn extends partnership with Pioneer Community Center to continue senior services

The West Linn City Council voted Jan. 13 to approve an intergovernmental agreement with the Pioneer Community Center in Oregon City to continue delivery of nutrition, transportation and social services for older adults and residents with disabilities.

Megan Big John, West Linn's parks and recreation director, and Cecily Rose, manager of the Pioneer Community Center, outlined the program and the proposed five-year agreement. Rose said the Pioneer Center provided 6,100 Meals on Wheels deliveries for West Linn residents in the past year, 253 congregate meals, and 1,787 one-way transportation trips for residents 60 and over or adults with disabilities. The program also supplies case management, well-being calls and formal resource connections.

Rose described the partnership's funding mix: a long-standing West Linn contribution (about $38,000 when the arrangement began in 2008, and roughly $41,000 in 2025), Clackamas County social services reimbursements, Older Americans Act funds, Medicaid or Title 19 where applicable, grants, and donations. Volunteers provided an estimated 9,378 hours of service last year, which Rose said represents a significant in-kind savings for the program.

The council moved and unanimously approved the intergovernmental agreement after the city attorney indicated the contract had been reviewed. Councilors thanked Pioneer staff and noted opportunities for councilors to participate in Meals on Wheels deliveries as a community-engagement activity.

The agreement formalizes the ongoing partnership and maintains the current service level with an annual CPI adjustment and renewal options.