Budget Kink; City Could Close Pools, Fire Station and Senior Center

Should the city close the Harman Senior Center? How about Yakima Fire Station 92 at 7707 Tieton Dr? Both are on a list of possible cuts to save $9 million in the city budget in 2026.

LET YOUR VOICES BE HEARD THURSDAY NIGHT

City officials are asking voters to make a choice either higher taxes or cuts in city services.
If you live in Yakima City Council Districts 1 and 2 you are invited to the Yakima Convention Center for a special town hall meeting 6:30 pm Thursday in room G at 10 N 8th Street.
Yakima City Manager Vicki Baker held the first budget town hall meeting on Monday, April 7 at the Harman Senior Center. More than 100 people attended the event with many people urging the city to keep the center open in the future.

THE CITY IS TRYING TO CONNECT WITH YOU

The center is one of many on a list of possible closures to help fill a $9 million budget shortfall in 2026. Yakima Fire Station 92 is also on the list of possible closures to save money. Along with the town halls Baker is also making presentations to service organizations and non-profit groups. An online survey is also available until April 30.
The last Town Hall for Districts 3, 4 and 5 will be held April 16 at 6:30 pm at Davis High School, 212 S 6th Avenue.

CUTS OR HIGHER TAXES?

Baker and city council members have a tough road ahead and need to make some important moves with a predicted $9 million shortfall in 2026. Baker says "the City is facing some very difficult budget challenges and the City Council needs help from the community to make tough decisions."
According to Washington State law the city must have a balanced budget.