Tania C Wink

The board received a presentation from University of Washington students regarding visioning and connectivity plans for local gulches. Special proclamations were made to honor Metro Parks staff for their work during a school district labor dispute and to designate Arbor Day and Green Tacoma Day. Updates were provided by the President, standing committees, and the Executive Director. Public comments were received regarding concerns about the operation of a community center. The board approved resolutions to revise the November meeting schedule, approve warrants for the September claim fund, appoint an insurance broker of record for employee benefits, authorize an agreement for the construction of play equipment at a park, and approve an interlocal agreement and capital funding for a softball field partnership.

The Parks Tacoma Climate Action Plan provides a strategic framework to mitigate and adapt to climate change, fostering resilience within the organization and the wider community. The plan is organized around four core focus areas: Organizational Sustainability, Community Resilience, Resilient Built Environment, and Resilient Living Systems. It aims to achieve a nature-inspired, climate-positive future by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, conserving water, managing waste, and promoting engaged partnerships for a sustainable and equitable environment.

The board meeting focused on the development of the 2025-2026 budget, including an overview of community engagement results, key budget drivers, and financial assumptions. Discussions covered revenue sources, such as property and sales taxes, along with expenditure projections. Additionally, the session reviewed capital expenditure plans, infrastructure replacement, and strategic board commitments regarding equity, community safety, environmental sustainability, and health initiatives.

The public hearing focused on the presentation and review of the 2025-2026 District Biennial Budget. Key topics included an overview of the budget development process, revenue projections for sales and property taxes, and a detailed breakdown of operating expenditures, including salaries, benefits, and service contracts. Additionally, the hearing covered the Capital Improvement Plan, emphasizing ongoing infrastructure projects, safety, accessibility initiatives, and the transition toward the 2025-2030 CIP framework focused on climate action and infrastructure sustainability.

The committee meeting focused on a strategic initiative to increase participation by local, minority-owned, women-owned, and small businesses in public works contracting. Key discussions included a proposed 10-year strategy to achieve a 30 percent increase in local spending by 2035, current apprenticeship utilization rates, and the District's Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) policies. The group reviewed data collection and tracking improvements, the need for enhanced reporting technology, and support systems for emerging contractors through outreach and technical assistance. Participants also explored coordination with other regional public agencies and community organizations regarding equity and economic development goals.