The Tacoma Community Vitality and Safety Committee convened on July 24, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at enhancing community engagement and safety. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to foster a vibrant arts scene in Tacoma, particularly through poetry and creative expression.

Burl Battersby, the executive editor of "Voices of A Gathering of Poets," shared insights into the formation of the poetry collective, which began in 2022. Battersby noted the absence of a Tacoma poetry anthology since 2009, prompting the initiative to launch with funding from the Tacoma Artist Initiative program in March 2023. The group has since hosted monthly gatherings in partnership with the Tacoma Public Library, allowing poets to share their work and connect with the community.

Over the past two and a half years, nearly 500 creatives have participated in events, fostering a supportive environment for artistic expression. Battersby emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for individuals to share their poetry, regardless of their experience level. He encouraged community members to engage with the arts, stating that poetry is accessible to everyone, regardless of perceived skill.

The committee discussed the significance of collaboration with existing organizations in Tacoma's arts community, such as Creative Coliqui and Blue Cactus Press. Battersby expressed a desire to build upon these efforts rather than compete, highlighting the collective responsibility to nurture Tacoma's rich artistic landscape.

The meeting concluded with a call for continued dialogue and collaboration among community members. Battersby urged attendees to share their thoughts and ideas, reinforcing the notion that the gathering is not merely an audience but a community committed to supporting one another through creative expression. The committee's focus on community vitality and safety remains integral to fostering a thriving cultural environment in Tacoma.