Roberto Velazquez

At the Everett City Council Budget Hearing for Admin and Finance on May 27, 2026, Roberto Velazquez of the Youth Development Enrichment Department introduced the department’s work and answered council questions on staffing, programming, and funding. He said the department had spent the past two years trying to be “a tool and resource for the community, specifically the youth,” and outlined a broad set of offerings that went beyond sports, including recreation enrichment, STEM, art, mental health support, and workforce development.

Velazquez said the department had hired about 300 youth each summer in past years and expected about 260 this year. He explained that the program was being restructured so youth would work fewer hours but do “more meaningful” work, with in-program learning on how that experience would help their future. He clarified that the program line item covers youth ages 14 and 15, with a summer cost “a little over $120,000.” He also said ARPA funds help support youth ages 16 and older, and that the department was seeking donations from local businesses to supplement summer programming.

He described current staffing as about six people total, including interns and two Digital Navigators, and said he had been doing much of the grant work while now also working with planning and development, including Jamila’s support. In response to questions about job options for younger teens, he explained that workers’ permit restrictions limit what 14- and 15-year-olds can do and make sites like kitchens and construction areas off-limits, which is why beautification work was chosen as the closest fit. He also said the department tries to place older youth in appropriate worksites, including interviews for positions at Elliott.

Velazquez answered questions about finances and operations, saying the recreation revolving account supports programs and purchases, and that most recreation center programs are free except for certain offerings like Crimson Kids, tournaments, and the travel basketball program. He also confirmed that the wellness center manager, Richard, is a city employee and not outsourced, and said the wellness center would be closing soon, with notices to be posted in the gym and on social media. He noted he had been acting director since about November 25 and said he could provide revenue and expense reports. No votes were taken.