The Tacoma City Council wants more older adults to serve in volunteer roles on citizen committees, boards, and commissions within city government.

The council approved a resolution in March making membership for people 65-and-older a priority. The action was prompted by input last year from seniors, as well as the fact that more than half of the advisory groups don’t have seniors as members.

“I’ve heard from many of them that we are not doing enough to ensure our policies and programs are easy to navigate as they age,” said Councilman John Hines, one of several council members who are strong advocates of senior involvement. “We are an aging city, with more seniors every day, and they bring with them perspectives regarding mobility, connectivity, and safety. We need to do a better job incorporating their voices into our discussions to help ensure that Tacoma is a city where all residents, at every stage of life, feel connected and supported.”

The committees, boards and commissions (CBCs) advise city officials  on matters such as urban design human services. Their recommendations help the council in its decisionmaking.

The council appoints CBC members and wants each of the bodies to have at least one member older than 65.

Starting last December and ending in January, Tacoma closed two senior centers and transferred its senior services to Parks Tacoma (formerly Metro Parks). That experience  “highlighted the immense value of seniors’ backgrounds and experiences,” said Councilman Sandesh Sadalge. “With our retirement-aged population growing, their voices must be integral to policy decisions. We should encourage representation for young and elderly residents across all CBCs, making Tacoma a city that truly works for everyone.”

More information about CBCs is available from the city clerk at servetacoma@cityoftacoma.org or 253-591-5178.