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Public commenter warns Sedro‑Woolley council of July 1 transition for senior nutrition; city staff outline next steps
Summary
A public commenter asked how the city will ensure continuity of congregate meals and senior‑center services after a county‑led restructuring that could take effect July 1, 2026. City staff said the county proposed an interlocal amendment and staff will present a financial analysis at a March 4 study session and the ILA amendment at the Feb. 25 meeting.
Carl DeYoung, a Sedro‑Woolley resident, addressed the council during public comment on Feb. 11 and submitted a written nine‑point request for clarity about the city’s role in the Cedro Woolley Senior Center and the senior nutrition program.
"I am Carl DeYoung...the senior nutrition program [is] transitioning to new providers starting 07/01/2026, 139 days from today," DeYoung said, asking the council to explain in plain language what the county provides versus what the city provides, how continuity of congregate meals will be protected, who will control kitchen access and scheduling, and whether the city will host a local listening session before new arrangements are finalized.
City staff told the council the county has proposed an amendment to the existing interlocal agreement that would terminate the ILA in June. Staff said the county is open to reworking the ILA so it would remove nutrition services while continuing senior‑center operations for the remainder of the year. Staff scheduled the ILA amendment for the Feb. 25 council meeting and said a financial analysis of senior‑center costs and guiding principles will be presented at a March 4 study session. Staff added a county representative will attend a meeting next week to discuss the nutrition program transition.
Council members and staff emphasized the need for clear communication with seniors and asked that the city consider contingency plans to avoid service gaps. The council also noted postcards and written comments the city received on senior services had been placed on the dais for members’ review.
What’s next: staff will present the county’s proposed ILA amendment at the Feb. 25 meeting and a financial analysis and guiding principles at a March 4 study session; staff said they will meet with the county and the community and report back to the council. DeYoung had specifically requested a written staff response or briefing date so residents would know what to expect before July 1.
