A substantial portion of the meeting focused on enhancing the Gardner Senior Center’s entrance and check-in processes. Plans were unveiled to create multiple entrances to better accommodate the senior patrons. The main entry is set to be converted into a two-way entrance, complemented by an additional exit door. A fire door in the middle of the building will also be converted to an entry/exit door, thus providing four access points in total. This new design aims to reduce the walking distance for seniors, especially those who park farther away. The middle entrance will feature a hallway leading into the building, with a current room being reduced in size for storage purposes.

A significant concern raised during the meeting was the importance of an accurate check-in system for seniors using the center’s facilities. Currently, there are two kiosks for check-in, but plans are in place to install additional kiosks at each entrance. It was noted that many seniors do not check in, complicating the ability to report accurate usage statistics to the state and city council. The speaker emphasized, “those check-ins are important… those are the numbers we’re presenting in terms of activity levels.” This lack of accurate data makes it challenging to justify the need for resources, such as new equipment. There was discussion about implementing a passive system using RFID tags to track attendance without requiring active participation from users, but this would not capture program-specific data.

The director’s report highlighted ongoing efforts to improve programming and logistics at the center. Staff have been managing increased activity levels and unique programming, including collaboration with the Gardner Senior Center and the suicide prevention task force for community events. Recent attempts to host a National Night Out event faced significant logistical challenges due to weather, but the staff managed operations effectively despite these setbacks.

Transportation issues remain a priority, with a new initiative launched to assist seniors with mobility challenges in attending bingo. This initiative has led to increased participation. Additionally, the center is planning to offer vaccine clinics in partnership with local providers. However, attendance for COVID-19 vaccine clinics has declined, with only 25 attendees reported at the last clinic. The director acknowledged the challenge of encouraging participation in health-related activities, stating, “even if it’s one person it’s a good thing, but I sure wish we could get more people to come.”

Following the accessibility and programming discussions, the meeting delved into various financial reports. The treasurer presented the financials for June, July, and August, highlighting that the council ended the fiscal year without requiring additional funds. The Information Technology budget was notable for its 83% expenditure rate, while another IT line item showed nearly full utilization at 99.9%. Despite an initial budget boost of $6,500 for a generator and air purifier, a surplus was returned to the city, with the council spending 99% of its total budget.

Attention then turned to the gift fund, which began the fiscal year with a balance of $65,536.24. During the year, the council received $13,679.69, culminating in an ending balance of $79,215.92. There was no interest accrued on the accounts, leading to a discussion about potential financial management improvements. The revolving fund ended the fiscal year with a balance of $44,830.95, with expenditures amounting to $18,000.

The discussion also covered the FY 23 State Grant, which was “zeroed out,” confirming that all funds had been effectively utilized. The FY 24 State Grant revealed that $13,000 had been spent so far, leaving a balance of $64,718. The FY 25 grant was acknowledged, with early expenditures approved based on anticipated revenue. New equipment purchases, including 20 Chromebooks and two laptops for managing a mobile production cart, were detailed, highlighting efforts to enhance remote access to council activities for seniors unable to attend in person.

In response to technology assistance for seniors, it was reported that a weekly program, “Tech Insights,” is already in place, providing targeted assistance for seniors with various devices. Concerns about the sustainability of such programs were raised, particularly regarding the reliance on contracted instructors.

The financial discussions concluded with a motion to accept the June 30th year-end financial report. The meeting then transitioned to further financial reports, with the July report showing no recorded expenses yet and the gift fund receiving an additional $2,800. Questions arose regarding salary increases, governed by existing contracts and not reflected in the budget.

Renovations and accessibility modifications at the Water Street location were also addressed, with updates on expected completion by early winter and a possible move planned for February or March. The new entrance would feature automatic doors for handicap accessibility, and additional security measures would be implemented to manage access to the facility.