Dear Friends,
 

We’re having a busy week. By now, I’m sure you are aware that the Governor declared Pierce County to be at risk of a COVID outbreak due to our not meeting the Healthy Washington metrics. He has mandated us to revert to Phase 2 effective April 16, to be reevaluated May 3.
 
I know there is a plethora of opinions about the Governor’s decision, regardless, it is imperative that we try and address the repercussions of this action. I am not one who easily agrees with spending the fruits of your labor; however, the Council unanimously passed an emergency ordinance, 2021-29, authorizing a $4 million one-time allocation from the general fund to help sustain our local businesses.
 
The program opened today and will be administered by Pierce County’s Economic Development Department. The deadline to apply is 5 p.m. on April 23. Click here for program eligibility information and/or to apply.
 
As an FYI, on Thursday, April 15, all Washingtonians (16+) will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. Our Executive made a request to the Governor for the County’s vaccine allocation to be increased by 15,000 doses per week, at least until we catch up to the state’s average of percent of population vaccinated. We received confirmation this week that we will receive 5,000 additional doses per week.

Public Safety Committee

Monday’s Public Safety Committee included two very informative presentations—Pierce County’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) progress report and Human Trafficking. I found an informative article on the Executive’s goals for the DEI initiative here.
 
There are no words to describe the horrors of human trafficking. It is most prevalent along busy highways and occurring as I write. To listen to the meeting, click here.

Free Health Clinic

Over the years, I have met some of the most wonderful, interesting and caring people. Recently, one of them informed me of a health clinic to be held in Sumner, June 26 from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Compassion Connect South Sound will be offering a free health clinic for those who lack access to  basic health care. Although the event is not in the 3rd District, it may be an opportunity for you to volunteer or utilize the services being offered. If you would like to volunteer, visit their website. For detailed information, please visit Compassion Connect’s website. 

Can you take the HEAT? 

Message from the Graham Fire and Rescue

 
Graham Fire and Rescue is looking for folks who want to serve. I just received a notice from the Graham Business Association that our local fire department is hiring and seeking volunteers. They need six entry-level firefighters and more volunteer firefighters. For details, or to apply, click here.

American Rescue Plan Act

It’s hard to not know about the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). For those who have tuned out the news and social media, here is a link to read about the Executive’s proposal for spending the $175 million we expect to receive from the federal government. Your input regarding priorities is most welcome, as we will soon be working to create the policies, within the eligible parameters, for spending the ARPA dollars by the end of 2024.

Fun Run

Have a few pounds to lose from being stuck inside? Consider participating in the Spring Fling Virtual 5k fun run sponsored by Pierce County Parks. No cheating if you want to meet your goals. For more information or to register for this virtual race, as well as the rest of the upcoming in-person races, visit the RUN the FUN website or call 253-798-4000.
 
Grateful for you and the opportunity to serve!