Perplexed by decision at Kent Senior Center | Letter to the editor

Perplexed by decision at Kent Senior Center

I am writing to bring attention to a matter of great concern among the senior community in Kent, particularly those who frequent the Kent Senior Center. My name is Noshir K. Romani, a 73-year-old retiree who has been an active member of the senior center since 2015.

The Kent Senior Center has been a vital and rejuvenating space for seniors like myself, offering opportunities to socialize, engage in recreational activities, and stay active in our golden years. However, a recent decision by the center’s management to impose a $2 per day fee exclusively for pool play has deeply disappointed and upset many members, myself included.

Playing pool has been a cherished activity for numerous seniors at the center, some of whom face physical challenges and use wheelchairs for mobility. The imposition of this fee not only hinders their ability to enjoy a beloved pastime, but also raises questions about the center’s commitment to inclusivity and support for the diverse needs of its members.

I understand that running a senior center requires funding, but it is crucial to consider the financial constraints that some seniors face. Many of the pool players, including myself, are on fixed incomes, and the addition of a daily fee has made it difficult for some to continue participating in this activity. Additionally, while I am supportive of contributing to the center’s well-being, it is perplexing why only pool play has been singled out for a fee, leaving other activities such as ping-pong unaffected.

Furthermore, it is my understanding that senior centers, including Kent Senior Center, receive funding from both state and federal governments, which ultimately comes from the taxpayers’ money. This leads to the question of why the center has chosen to impose a fee on one specific activity, potentially driving away seniors who have been loyal patrons for years. Most of my friends have moved out to other senior centers in Renton and Auburn where there is no fee. I have decided to play no more at the Kent Senior Center from today as nobody shows up now.

I have already written to the mayor of Kent expressing my concerns, but unfortunately, I have yet to receive a response. Therefore, I am reaching out to your esteemed publication to shed light on this issue and amplify the voices of seniors who feel disheartened by this sudden and seemingly arbitrary decision.

I kindly request your assistance in bringing attention to this matter through the publication of this letter. By doing so, we hope to encourage open dialogue and seek a fair resolution that ensures the continued well-being and enjoyment of all members at the Kent Senior Center.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Noshir K. Romani, Kent