Perfecto! Not So Much
Councilmember Donald Abbott, champion of Sparks senior citizens, we hope this matter can be addressed with transparency and a commitment to improving services for Sparks’ senior citizens. We were surprised Abbott didn’t make a comment about this email in defense of those Sparks seniors you represent. Instead, you seem to be on “Team Washoe County” and join their employees in an attempt to shut down two seniors’ concerns.
The email suggested preparing for a possible "earful" at the July 2024 Sparks Senior Center meeting. We question whether this approach aligns with the goal of openly addressing seniors' concerns.
Picon has learned there is a senior meeting at the Sparks Senior Center the last Thursday of every month at 10AM – we urge senior advocates to attend.
Are we sending Washoe County employees for covert training? Do we pay Washoe County employees to warn one another about residents concerns? Shouldn’t their jobs be to work with seniors who might have complaints and concerns instead of forewarning one another, to shut down their comments before they can even be made.
Why would Councilman Abbott not make a comment, you know, “it’s my job to get an earful” – or “I’m happy to listen to all comments and concerns.”
Instead, they warn him that another Sparks City Council member has been invited. We understand that Councilmember Dian Vanderwell was invited to the meeting, the Sparks Senior Center is in Ward 2, we believe Mr. Metcalf has the right to extend such invitations.
There was a mention of the senior center being "hot." Given the 100+ degree temperatures at the time, this could have been a serious health concern for seniors seeking refuge from the heat. Shouldn’t someone with Washoe County or the City of Sparks have been concerned or at least discussed with Mr. Metcalf.
We encourage open communication between city officials, county employees, and the senior community. Addressing concerns directly, rather than attempting to preempt them, would better serve our senior citizens. Citizens should reach out to Ms. Abby Badolato for more clarification since she works with the Washoe County Human Services Agency (775) 328-2575.
We also inquire, might employees at Washoe County find a heart? Maybe a little compassion, because they too will be one day be OLD, and we hope they remember their unkindness and lack of compassion.
