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Sedro‑Woolley council votes to assume senior center operations amid county budget uncertainty
Summary
After the county signaled budget cuts for 2026, the council voted to amend the interlocal agreement to secure remaining 2026 funds, add a senior center coordinator to the city salary schedule and prepare a budget amendment to avoid service interruption.
Facing uncertainty about county funding for a retiring county coordinator, the Sedro‑Woolley City Council voted June 10 to move quickly to preserve senior center services. Council members directed staff to amend the interlocal agreement for remaining 2026 funds, add a senior center coordinator to the city's salary schedule, and prepare a budget amendment to finance the position so services continue without interruption.
City Administrator Charlie told council Scadget County will reduce staffing and may be unable to continue funding the position that has supported congregate meals and senior programming. He said the senior center’s total 2026 operating budget is roughly $189,000, with the city currently contributing about $75,000 and the county previously covering roughly $113,000 of the total. Charlie warned the county’s share could be reduced substantially or fall to zero depending on the county budget outcome.
Council debated options including renewing the interlocal agreement, contracting with a nonprofit to operate meals, or the city assuming direct operation. Councilman Henderson urged immediate action to prevent a service gap and proposed formal steps to secure funds and recruit staff. "We need to do this as quickly as possible," he said.
Councilman D. Young and others emphasized continuity: residents rely on congregate meals and Meals on Wheels for nutrition and social connection. Several councilmembers urged that the city attempt to secure any remaining county funds for 2026 while preparing to fully fund operations if necessary.
The motion — to amend the county interlocal for remaining 2026 funds, add a senior center coordinator to the city's salary schedule, and prepare a budget amendment for the remainder of 2026 — was made and seconded and passed by voice vote. Staff said the city could begin recruitment and would consult the existing senior center advisory group and other stakeholders on hiring and program continuity. The council asked staff to report back with concrete numbers on staffing responsibilities, program costs, and resident usage before the next budget cycle.
