The meeting’s primary focus was the review and approval of the 2026 senior resources packet. Members highlighted the significance of keeping the guide current and accessible, noting its impact beyond Victoria, as it has been used as a model by neighboring communities like Chanhassen and Norwood Young America. The updated guide aims to provide comprehensive information on transportation, health services, and community events, with a particular focus on ensuring that seniors who may not use digital platforms can still access the resources they need.

A key discussion point was the inclusion of various transportation services within the guide. The committee clarified the differences between Southwest Transit and Southwest Prime, with Southwest Prime offering on-demand services, albeit with limited operational areas. The conversation underscored the importance of these transportation options for seniors, especially for accessing medical facilities. Members also engaged in a light-hearted exchange about transit trivia, highlighting the necessity of keeping these services top-of-mind for senior residents.

Members proposed several enhancements to the guide, including a section dedicated to community events, which would feature key dates for city-sponsored activities. This addition aims to boost awareness and attendance since many seniors may not be aware of events publicized through existing channels. The proposal extended to include a line in the guide indicating that the parks and recreation brochure is published three times a year, offering further clarity on available community resources.

The guide will also incorporate new resources like the University of Minnesota’s website focused on home and financial management, providing vital information on stable housing and home maintenance. Additionally, the committee agreed to update the name of the senior linkage line and remove references to the Victoria Farmers Market, which is no longer hosted by Anki Brewing.

Accessibility was a recurring theme, with members emphasizing the need for clear formatting and adherence to ADA guidelines. Concerns were raised regarding the document’s font size, but it was confirmed to be compliant with existing standards. The committee showed a willingness to make adjustments to ensure the guide remains user-friendly for all seniors.

Beyond the resource guide, the meeting touched on several upcoming city events. The “Light Up Victoria” event is set for December 4th at Bayfront Park, featuring Santa Claus, dance performances, and choirs. Other notable events include “How Community Committees Shape Victoria” on January 21st, “Speak of the Devil” focusing on library resources on February 18th, and “Casting Your Vote” on March 18th, co-hosted with the city clerk.

In transportation discussions, a suggestion was made to include resources from Carver County and nearby communities, positioning Victoria as a hub for such information. The committee agreed, provided it did not make the guide overly broad.

Library access updates were also discussed, with a report noting over 100 registrations for extended library access, including 127 visitors in November. Plans to expand these services to Nord by May were mentioned.

As the meeting concluded, attention turned to the downtown west project. The city is collaborating with a developer to create retail spaces and public amenities, including a plaza and community room, with discussions expected in January. This development promises to enrich the community landscape, offering new spaces for social and recreational activities.

The potential return of a service provider to future meetings to discuss available resources for seniors was also considered, with an acknowledgment of funding challenges affecting service availability.