The most pressing topic at the meeting was the planning for the proposed Community Center. A recommendation for the Community Center at Simon’s Way will be presented on June 18th, with the Permanent Building Committee set to review the plans. The COA members sought clarity on their involvement in the process, including reviewing and voting on the recommended site before the proposal is presented to the select board. Additionally, concerns were raised about the cost and funding for potential additional testing at a specific location, with debates on whether this should be included in the feasibility study.

A report from a member who had attended a financial forum with town officials, including the Town Manager, highlighted the challenges in finalizing figures for the Community Preservation Act and the Senior Center. This underscored the importance of financial transparency and careful consideration of funding sources for the project.

Furthermore, the inadequacy of the current Pleasant Street Center was a topic of concern. A draft letter to the editor was prepared to outline the challenges faced by the center, such as limited accessibility and outdated facilities. The letter aimed to raise awareness of the need for a more spacious and contemporary center to accommodate the growing 60+ population in Reading.

The COA also discussed the importance of socialization spaces and age-friendly safety features for the new center, emphasizing the increase in space from 4,000 to 12,000 square feet. A motion was passed to accept the proposal for the new center with final edits to be made at the discretion of designated individuals.

In terms of communication and outreach, the COA is working on the May newsletter for RCTV and discussed the need for a soundtrack and legible content. The high school internship program was also mentioned, with plans to start the internship earlier in the students’ senior year and the addition of a new junior student to the program.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the creation of a website for the COA and the visibility and format of the RCTV schedule for programming related to the Senior Center. The COA collaborated with a graphic designer to create a potential logo and discussed the need for a new public health nurse, possibly combining the position with Elder and Human Services.

A significant change proposed was the relocation of the nurse’s office from Town Hall to the Senior Center to provide better access to healthcare for seniors. The allocation of office hours for the nurse and the supervision of the new position were debated, as was the need for flexible hours to meet seniors’ needs.

The COA also debated various expenses, including the coverage of testing and feasibility study costs. Discussions included whether these should be funded by the Elder Services budget or the town budget. Preparations for the upcoming Friends and Family Day were underway, with plans to distribute informational flyers and refreshments. The council discussed the handling of expenses and coordination of events, including the need for W9 forms for reimbursements.

Volunteers for upcoming events such as the open house and Friends and Family Day were also discussed, along with the types of giveaways to distribute. Advertising strategies for events were considered, including outreach to schools and local organizations. There was a vote on whether to become a member of RCTV, with some concerns about the legality and appropriateness of such a decision.

Lastly, there was a brief report on Elder Human Services and a vote on a motion related to a Boston Celtics game, highlighting the council’s continued efforts to engage and provide for the senior community.