Council approves major funding for domestic violence response program

During a recent council meeting, significant financial decisions were made, including the approval of substantial payments and grants aimed at enhancing community services and infrastructure.

The council unanimously adopted the consent agenda, which included a total accounts payable of over $13 million and payroll vouchers exceeding $2 million for the pay period from June 16 to June 30. Additionally, municipal court vouchers were approved, totaling $23,481.

A key highlight was the council's approval of a $185,000 grant agreement with the Association of Washington Cities for the Alternative Response Co-Responder Program. This funding is designated for reimbursement of project costs associated with co-response services, particularly in domestic violence situations.

Furthermore, the council authorized participation in a settlement agreement with opioid distributor Kroger, which will facilitate the acquisition of additional opioid remediation settlement funds. This agreement is part of a broader initiative to address the opioid crisis, following a memorandum of understanding approved by the council in September 2022.

In another significant move, the council approved an energy efficiency grant from the Washington State Department of Commerce amounting to $267,626. This grant will fund improvements to HVAC controls and LED lighting across several city buildings, including City Hall and the Henry Moses Aquatic Center, with completion expected by June 2026.

Looking ahead, the council announced that there will be no meetings on July 29, with the next scheduled meeting set for August 5, where council standards and ethics will be discussed. Additionally, the transportation committee will convene on the same day to address a change order related to the Rainier Avenue South Corridor Improvements project.

The meeting concluded with no new business raised by council members, and the session was adjourned.