The meeting delved deeply into the technological advancements being introduced at the Gardner Senior Center, emphasizing a new portable audio-visual (AV) cart funded by a technology grant. This cart is designed to enhance video presentations for seniors who are unable to attend activities in person, offering dynamic filming capabilities with multiple camera angles and integration with Zoom. This upgrade aims to facilitate real-time participation in activities such as yoga and line dancing. Half of the grant’s expenses will support the Templeton Senior Center, with Gardner’s share amounting to approximately $418. Despite delays caused by equipment backorders, 20 Chromebooks were acquired to bolster internet access for seniors, split evenly between Gardner and Templeton. The discussion also touched on the potential for these classes to be available as video-on-demand, which would greatly benefit seniors with mobility or transportation issues.

The introduction of a new system to log volunteer hours was another key topic. This initiative aims to improve the documentation of volunteer engagement, which has previously been inconsistent. The system is expected to enhance the integrity of the data collected and ensure that volunteer contributions are properly acknowledged. Volunteers have played a role in events like the Christmas and Thanksgiving meals, with approximately 50 volunteers participating in the recent Christmas events alone. The speaker emphasized the need to document interactions with seniors, particularly those involving assistance with housing, heating fuel, or mental health issues, to effectively identify community needs and trends.

Financial matters were also discussed in detail, with the presentation of the financial report highlighting the status of various funds. The general fund, gift fund, revolving fund, and the FY 24 State Grant were examined, revealing a current balance of approximately $118,000 in the general fund and $87,200.74 in the gift fund. The revolving fund, which supports activities such as Christmas events, holds a balance of $45,859.96. The FY 24 State Grant, primarily used for instructor payments and gifts, has a remaining balance of $39,671.76. Members were informed of the financial allocations, with no questions raised on any item.

The director’s report addressed the FY 2026 budget process, highlighting draft budgets from the mayor and justifying proposed expenses, including a 3% increase in staff salaries and an increase in the clothing allowance for outdoor personnel. The director reported that 80% of the overtime budget had been utilized halfway through the fiscal year, primarily due to added nighttime programs. To manage this, flex hour negotiations were proposed as a strategy to alleviate some of this overtime pressure. Additionally, an increase in the mail site manager’s contract for food services was discussed, amounting to $133,000, split between the previous and current fiscal years. There was also a proposal to increase the Pro tech line item for internet and cable access due to rising costs.

The director provided updates on past and upcoming activities, celebrating the success of the Christmas event, which saw around 75 attendees despite a performer’s cancellation. The community’s swift response ensured the event’s smooth progression. A record of 380 meals was prepared for the Christmas meal service, supported by local organizations like the Lions Club and the Elks Club. Upcoming programs include Tai Chi classes, a new drumming program, and the revival of the ukulele group, all set to commence in February. Tax Aid services are also scheduled, with expectations to assist between 100 and 120 tax returns. The director called for volunteers for upcoming events, particularly for the Christmas cleanup, and outlined plans for future celebrations such as Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day.

A comprehensive twelve-month schedule for trips organized by the Senior Center was discussed, with positive community feedback. Planned trips include a visit to the Newport Playhouse and a Kentucky Derby event in May, with a designated area at the center displaying trip information for easy access. Members shared compliments from residents of neighboring towns regarding the Senior Center’s array of activities and high participation levels, recognizing the collaborative efforts of volunteers, staff, and board members.