Committee recommends Sarah E. Pinto for Human Services Commission

The Community Vitality and Safety Committee voted March 26 to recommend Sarah E. Pinto for appointment to the Human Services Commission to fill an unexpired term ending Sept. 30, 2026, followed by a three-year term to Sept. 30, 2029.

City Clerk Nicole Emery explained the interview format before Pinto spoke for two minutes about her human-services background. "I currently am a deputy prosecuting attorney for Pierce County," Pinto said, describing earlier work with Tacoma Pro Bono providing eviction defense and family support to low-income and noncitizen clients. Pinto told the committee she brings consensus-building skills and experience working with community partners; she also cited perspectives as a veteran and a military spouse.

Committee members asked how Pinto would work with commissioners who disagree and how she would broaden engagement with underrepresented organizations. Pinto said she starts by listening, identifying overlapping interests and using those commonalities to build consensus. "The organizations that are doing work in a particular category really are the ones who know best who else is in the field," she said.

A motion to recommend Pinto’s appointment was moved and seconded; members approved the recommendation by voice vote. The clerk will contact Pinto with next steps and the committee’s recommendation will be forwarded to the full City Council for final action.

The committee’s decision follows the interview process described by the city clerk, which allowed two-minute presentations and up to three minutes of follow-up questioning. The vacancy and schedule for Council consideration were noted during the meeting.