The commission introduced a new community program set to launch on September 18th. This program, with a daily fee of $20, aims to provide structured activities facilitated by professional staff. Notably, financial assistance will be available for those unable to afford the fee, with funding managed by Michelle from Bridgewater. This initiative includes both in-person and remote participation options, a necessary adaptation to meet future community needs.

Promotion of the program was a key discussion point. Efforts to reach residents, particularly in local park areas, through newsletters and Facebook were emphasized. The program currently accommodates six participants, and concerns were raised about potential growth limitations. Additionally, there was a consensus on utilizing existing community communication avenues to ensure broader awareness.

In conjunction with the new program, the commission discussed the Alzheimer’s program’s status and future involvement. Outreach efforts are ongoing, with board members being encouraged to participate in local training sessions to better understand the needs of the elderly and their caregivers. The board recognized the dual benefits of such programs, providing support to individuals with cognitive challenges and substantial relief to their caregivers.

Another topic was the need for assistance during busy hours at the commission’s office, particularly on Thursdays. The request for volunteers to help with meet and greet duties at the entrance was highlighted. The current setup often leads to visitors entering and leaving without proper sign-ins, raising concerns about tracking and emergency contacts. Board members were urged to reach out to their volunteer lists to meet this pressing need.

The search for new board members was also on the agenda, with a talent bank form received from a potential candidate, Cassandra Doyle Walden. Procedures for selecting new members, including an interview process and a recommendation to the selectman, were clarified. The board stressed the importance of new members attending meetings before official appointments to understand the dynamics and responsibilities involved.

Public safety concerns were addressed, focusing on pedestrian safety at the crosswalk near the library and playground. The button for activating the lights was not easily visible, posing hazards, especially for young children. Suggestions included installing a more visible sign and having an unmarked police cruiser near the library during busy market days to deter reckless driving. Despite limited police resources, safety was emphasized as a priority, with funding opportunities for traffic enforcement being explored.

Infrastructure updates were another point of discussion. New sidewalks were being constructed at the library and school parking lot. Changes to speed limits in town were discussed, particularly the expansion of the 25 mph speed limit zone in central Halifax. This change aims to enhance safety around local businesses and new condo construction areas. Board members expressed enthusiasm about these developments and the need for continued vigilance regarding citizen safety.

The meeting also covered governance issues, including the consideration of formal job descriptions for board members. Establishing standardized descriptions for roles such as chair and secretary was debated to enhance clarity and accountability. The need for a vice chair to ensure continuity in case of unforeseen circumstances affecting the chair’s role was also discussed.

An update on the new outreach assistant position revealed an applicant whose salary expectation exceeded the current offer by $2. This discrepancy, complicated by grant funding regulations, sparked discussions about exploring funding flexibility to avoid losing a suitable candidate.

Lastly, the meeting touched on the development of a new brochure to inform new residents about the organization and its services. Efforts to finalize the brochure’s formatting were ongoing, with an initial print run of 50 to 100 copies proposed. The importance of distributing the brochures at various locations to maximize accessibility for community members was highlighted.