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September 16, 2020 <br /> Next year, our recreational programming will look different. With COVID <br /> preventing gatherings and events, and the limited resources we have, we are not <br /> budgeting for traditional city-sponsored recreational classes or outings. <br /> We have had a great response, though, to our first public-private partnership <br /> request for proposals. This RFP seeks innovative and creative ideas for partnering <br /> with other organizations to enhance recreation opportunities throughout the city. <br /> Many organizations are asking questions and touring facilities. We will evaluate <br /> potential partnerships based on how well they improve our assets and access to <br /> recreation, and the extent to which they increase revenues or decrease expenses <br /> for the City. This has the potential to benefit our residents, our local business and <br /> nonprofit community, and the City's bottom line. Once we know which proposals <br /> are viable, we can begin discussions around vital programs such as senior center <br /> services and Camp Patterson. <br /> A key part of our parks department is our animal shelter and like other examples <br /> I've shared today, the Shelter has truly found innovation amidst the pandemic. <br /> They have been leading the industry in best practices for shelters by expanding <br /> their foster program nearly overnight and providing curbside and online adoption <br /> services. Our new fundraising manager, who we brought on last year, has already <br /> surpassed her 2020 goal by implementing donor tracking software, developing <br /> newsletters and writing grants that support animals in Everett. <br /> Just yesterday they held their first live puppy-cam fundraiser, which not only stole <br /> hearts with the adorable puppies, but also raised essential funds to support food, <br /> supplies and medical care for shelter animals. <br /> Engaged & informed community <br /> When COVID-19 arrived in our community, it turned our world upside down. In <br /> this new world, it's been critical to expand and innovate the ways we keep our <br /> community informed about what's going on. City teams have boosted our web <br /> content, launched a dedicated COVID newsletter, and found ways to conduct <br /> meetings and hearings and council meetings virtually. <br />