The closure of Nashoba Hospital has left a gap in healthcare services for Ayer residents, particularly affecting the elderly and other vulnerable groups. During the meeting, a candidate for the board shared personal experiences and emphasized the need for alternative healthcare facilities. She suggested that repurposing existing buildings, similar to Fitchburg’s transformation of the former Burbank Hospital into an oncology center, could be a viable option for Ayer. The board members considered this idea while also discussing the potential establishment of urgent care facilities or a community health center, which could serve the diverse needs of the population, including immigrants in need of primary care.

Funding emerged as a central concern in these discussions. The candidate highlighted the role of federal funds in supporting similar initiatives in other towns and suggested seeking similar opportunities for Ayer. The conversation also touched upon the possibility of engaging private donors for funding, particularly in the context of developing a new senior center. However, it was noted that board members involved with the Council on Aging would be ineligible to participate in fundraising due to potential conflicts of interest.

The meeting also addressed the nomination of Cheryl Boisey to the Council on Aging Board of Directors, filling an unexpired term ending in June 2025. Boisey’s qualifications, particularly her expertise in mental health and experience with homebound seniors, were lauded by participants. Although concerns were raised about her ability to attend in-person events due to her mobility limitations, the board acknowledged the potential for her to contribute remotely. Boisey’s unique insights into the experiences of homebound seniors were seen as valuable, and her ability to leverage technology for remote programming was emphasized. The board ultimately voted in favor of her nomination, with three members approving and one abstaining.

Further discussions at the meeting included plans for community engagement regarding an upcoming building project. The Select Board and town manager expressed support for a special town meeting to address the project, with a public forum suggested for mid-November to inform residents. Outreach efforts were proposed, including utilizing community events and informal gatherings to gather feedback and increase public awareness.

The board also discussed transportation services provided by the Council on Aging, noting the expansion of routes and the high demand for medical and grocery appointments. The need for a second van and driver was highlighted, alongside challenges in accessing public meeting information from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority (MART) website.

In addition to these topics, the meeting touched on various initiatives at the senior center, including volunteer opportunities, meal services, and plans for upcoming events. The senior center was recognized by Loaves and Fishes as their outstanding community partner of the year, honoring the center’s efforts in distributing groceries and serving meals.