Media Advisory
For Immediate Release
Contact Information
Irene Stewart, HSD Communications Manager
irene.stewart@seattle.gov
Public Hearings: Seattle-King County Area Plan on Aging for 2024–2027
Aging and Disability Services (ADS)—a division of the Seattle Human Services Department—is designated by the State of Washington as the Area Agency on Aging for Seattle and King County. An important responsibility of each Area Agency on Aging (AAA), mandated nationwide through the Older Americans Act of 1965, is creation of a four-year Area Plan. This State-required document summarizes community strengths and challenges—including the issues, needs, and emerging trends identified by older people, adults with disabilities, caregivers, and providers—for the area served.
Earlier this year, ADS engaged community in meetings and with an online survey and held six focus group discussions with diverse representatives the ADS Advisory Council, the Mayor’s Council on African American Elders, Seattle Human Services Department’s Race and Social Justice Change Team members, and community providers and partners to understand the harms and issues experienced by Black and Indigenous elders and other elders of color.
Draft Area Plan for 2024–2027 issue areas, goals, and objectives are now published at https://tinyurl.com/ADSDraftAreaPlan2024-2027 and available for public review. Three public hearings have been scheduled to gain additional input:
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Public Hearing #1—Monday, August 14, at 10 a.m.: ADS Renton Office, Mt. Si Conference Room (600 SW 39th St, Renton, WA 98057)
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Public Hearing #2—Wednesday, August 23, at 11 a.m.: Mt Si Senior Center (411 Main Ave S, North Bend, WA 98045)
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Public Hearing #3—Tuesday, September 5, at 10:30 a.m.: P&A Committee Meeting (virtual—to request log-on information, e-mail Karen.Winston@seattle.gov)
“The Area Plan’s goals and objectives reflect our commitment to eliminate racial disparities among older adults and people with disabilities in Seattle and King County,” said Aging and Disability Services division director Mary Mitchell. “Ultimately, we want all people to thrive throughout their lifespans, so we lead with race and center community.”
A three-week public comment period starts on August 14 and ends on September 5, 2023. During that time, community members and stakeholders are invited to comment on the plan. Written comments can be mailed to Aging and Disability Services, ATTN Karen Winston, PO Box 34215, Seattle, WA. 98124-4215, or e-mailed to karen.winston@seattle.gov.
The Area Plan will be submitted to the State Unit on Aging (part of the Washington State DSHS Aging and Long-Term Support Administration) on November 1, 2023. Following State approval in early 2024, the final plan will be posted online.
To request materials in an alternative format, click here. Please allow five business days lead time.
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