Seattle Parks and Recreation operates 26 community centers throughout the city. The cost to run the centers far exceeds revenue brought in from center programs. Because of the current difficult budget situation, the department is exploring alternatives that would offer continued services for the public, while reducing costs. New methods of management, staffing, fundraising and partnerships will be explored.
As part of this process, we’ve convened a Community Center Advisory Team (CCAT) comprised of community members, representatives from the Board of Park Commissioners, representatives of employee unions, employees, the Associated Recreation Council, and City Council and City Budget Office staff.
Our next CCAT meeting is Thursday night night at 6:30pm at Seattle Parks & Recreation, 100 Dexter Avenue North. Materials for the meeting are available on my website, and documents include profiles of community center operations in cities such as Denver, El Paso, Portland, San Jose, and San Diego.
The public is welcome to join us on Thursday night and share their thoughts.