We've been busy this week

Dear Friends,

Yes, it has been a very busy past couple of weeks. Researching to discern where to allocate the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, that will have the greatest humanitarian and financial impacts to carry us through this shutdown and the next 4 years, has not been easy.

I believe most of you are aware that the federal government passed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), allotting approximately $175 million to Pierce County to be used to combat the repercussions of covid 19, to be spent by the end of 2024.

Last Tuesday, the Council voted unanimously on where to distribute the first half of the dollars we expect to receive in the next few weeks through Ord. 2021-32. The overall immediate focus was to get funding to our most urgent needs. My focus is on the losses sustained by the human soul and families, with an emphasis on stabilizing the economy and addressing the backlog of mandated services, in particular, our courts. On page 11 of the ordinance, the shaded lines are what passed.

We supported funding to assist the businesses that were forced to reduce their services, thereby, denying them the ability to support their families. We directed funds for food banks that will provide nourishment to those who may need to choose between food or medicine. I have high hopes for the success of our farmers markets with their allotted funding to support their operations, and look forward to a mobile unit bringing “fresh” foods to rural areas.

Also included are dollars to assist those who have found themselves without shelter. We supported funding for our Pierce County Fair and the Lacamas Community Center. Our families and youth need that community support because we are “human” and thrive on relationships. In the ordinance is funding to help folks train and find jobs. Our road to recovery is long. The Executive signed the measure. I certainly welcome your suggestions and comments.

Travel and Tourism Week

On a brighter note this week, I was enthused to read the proclamation marking May 2-8, 2021 as National Travel and Tourism Week (R2021-64). Our county is abundant in opportunities for enjoying the outdoors by anyone. There are all kinds of activities available for all ages and budgets. Check out our Parks, Facilities and Trails site for ideas, or visit traveltacoma.com for a list of what's open in Pierce County and how to play tourist for the day.

Quilts of Valor

A few weeks ago, I watched the ceremony for the Veterans Treatment Court Graduation Recognition. Viewing this caused me to count my blessings. It was so encouraging to listen to caring and creative people who gave of their time and talents to reach out to those who willingly served us and found themselves in a struggle. I marveled at the most engaging quilts, hand-made with love, and tailored to each graduate. Well done faithful friends!

Pierce County Coordinated Transportation Coalition (PCCTC)

The PCCTC is a group of dedicated people seeking your input on our transportation services. If you have a few minutes to spare, please consider filling out their survey.

Job Opportunity: Seeking Behavioral Health Manager

Last December, the Pierce County Council approved a 1/10th of 1 percent sales tax increase to support behavioral health and therapeutic court services in Pierce County.

As part of that effort, the Council established a new position within the county’s Human Services Department to effectively manage how the new revenue stream was to be used in the community having the biggest impact.

We are currently seeking applicants to fill this new Behavioral Health Manger position.

In this role, the manager will build and lead an innovative team of employees with an annual budget of almost $12M, focusing on Prevention, Early Intervention, Outreach and Treatment programs for both youth and adults.

The role requires the manager to be highly engaged with the community and collaborate with diverse stakeholder groups, including tribes, coalitions, advocates, legislators, and other community providers. The position is rewarding, in that the work being done has a direct impact on people’s lives and the communities we serve.

To learn more about this position, or to apply, visit www.piercecountywa.org/jobs.
Applications must be submitted no later than May 14.

Thank you for taking the time to read this update. As always, I welcome your thoughts and comments.

Grateful for You!