During the meeting, the board scrutinized the senior center’s budgetary concerns, noting that the meals budget and programs budget were on track to be exhausted sooner than anticipated. This was attributed to the rising cost of food and a surge in program participation that had not been initially projected. The director presented a detailed breakdown of the budget, drawing attention to specific categories and special revenue accounts like donations, professional expenses, and mileage expenses.

The board deliberated on the best use of the senior activities fund, which amounted to $28,000 and could be utilized for transportation services or other senior programs. Members discussed the importance of spending the fund strategically to prevent it from reverting to the town as free cash. They also weighed the constraints and possible carryover of funds in special revenue accounts. To improve services for the senior community, the board considered the implementation of hybrid programming grants. These funds would enable the purchase of technological equipment such as iPads and Chromebooks for literacy programs, and the owl system for facilitating remote meetings.

Outreach efforts were also on the agenda, with board members acknowledging the importance of programs like the friendly visitor program and discussing the upcoming Devin food truck and craft festival booth. The board sought to enhance transportation services and explored ways to increase the outreach for Meals on Wheels. They noted a decrease in the program’s utilization and sought to investigate the underlying causes of the decline.

Another topic was the local hospital’s bankruptcy filing and its impact on senior citizen services. The board discussed the town’s role in advocating for desired outcomes and the possibility of the town acquiring the hospital land if it ceased to operate as a medical facility. The Planning Board and the Conservation Commission were identified as valuable resources in such a scenario.

The ongoing building project was also addressed, with the board noting the hiring of a new architect. Additionally, there was talk of planting flowers through a donation and the suggestion to issue a formal letter of recognition. The board tackled the sensitive issue of the meal scholarship program.

Transportation was another focal point, with the board discussing the need to hire additional van drivers for the Council on Aging to expand services. A miscommunication concerning the posting of a hiring sign for van drivers led to a broader conversation about roles and titles within the Council on Aging.

The meeting also touched on the potential formation of a Friends of the COA 501c3 organization, which would facilitate fundraising and advocacy efforts supporting the senior center. Additionally, the Disabilities Commission expressed interest in initiating an equipment lending program and securing dedicated space for it in the new building.