The deliberation over Debbie Muno’s voting status took center stage. Muno, who had been an associate member for eight months, sought to transition to a voting member. This request sparked a discussion among board members, with varying opinions on whether her previous experience as an associate member adequately prepared her for the voting position. While some members expressed support for her technical skills and involvement, others were concerned about the rapidity of her transition, considering that she had recently accepted the role of secretary. The debate underscored a broader theme of ensuring proper adherence to procedural norms and adequately recognizing qualifications.

The conversation revealed a mix of caution and confusion regarding Muno’s role, with participants debating whether her transition was justified or premature. The discussion grew contentious as some members expressed frustration over decisions being made without Muno’s presence, while others highlighted the need for a careful deliberation process. Ultimately, the board decided to table the vote on Muno’s transition to a voting member, agreeing that further reflection was necessary. The board planned to revisit the matter in the next meeting.

Aside from the debate on voting status, the meeting addressed several other topics. The Council on Aging announced various volunteer opportunities, including roles for Meals on Wheels and assistance at the cafe, encouraging interested individuals to contact the director. Mary Hay, representing the Friends group, highlighted a Thursday luncheon featuring a lobster meal and a pop-up sale at the gift shop, with all items available at half price or best offer, requesting cash payments.

The board also discussed policies and procedures, emphasizing the importance of the COA code of conduct in maintaining a welcoming atmosphere at the senior center. The advisory board’s role was clarified as advisory rather than operational, with members encouraged to engage in special projects and subcommittees beyond attending meetings. Compliance with the open meeting law guide and mandatory training on conflict of interest and ethics were reaffirmed as critical components of board membership.

In other business, the board addressed the advisory board office hours scheduled for August and September, opting to maintain the schedule despite low attendance, in anticipation of potential community inquiries related to the age and dementia surveys. A scheduling conflict was identified for the November meeting, coinciding with Veterans Day, leading to a decision to reschedule rather than cancel.

The director’s report provided updates on the launch of a redesigned town website aimed at improving user experience, as well as the transition to a new townwide alert system, Code Red. The senior tax workoff program was also discussed, with preparations underway for the upcoming program year. Additionally, a capital planning project to replace the collapsible wall panels in the grand room was confirmed, with minimal disruption expected during the installation.

The meeting also saw the progression of a townwide survey related to achieving a dementia-friendly designation, set to launch and close by early October. Despite questions about mailing the survey to residents, it was clarified that the project’s grant did not cover such costs. The survey is being promoted through multiple channels, including the town website and social media.