Exploring potential new sites for the senior center was a central topic. The committee examined the viability of building six and building eight within the Mill and Main properties, considering aspects such as parking availability, the slope of the terrain, and the overall space offered by each building. The square footage of these prospective locations was also discussed, with the committee looking at spaces ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 square feet to accommodate the center’s needs. The Royal Beijing school site was another option on the table, and the committee is in ongoing discussions regarding its suitability.

The committee’s approach includes a comprehensive evaluation of each potential site’s competitive square foot rate and the financial implications of leasing. They have developed a matrix for evaluating sites and are in the process of gathering detailed program and staffing information. This information will aid in accurately assessing the space requirements for the center. The importance of the Maynard Crossing discussions was highlighted, as was the need for more expertise in understanding real estate leasing to inform their decisions.

Another topic of discussion was the aging assessment conducted by UMass. The assessment included online and paper surveys, focus groups, and key informant interviews, all of which have been completed. The committee is now analyzing the data and expects the final report in October. The aging assessment will provide insights into the needs of the elderly community, including handicapped individuals. The feedback from the focus groups was positive.

The committee also touched on the need for a new clerk, as the current one would be unavailable for an extended period. Furthermore, the committee is looking to fill a vacant position following a resignation. They stressed the importance of maintaining regular meetings throughout the summer and planned to invite directors of other senior centers to speak at future meetings to share insights and experiences.

Funding for the senior center was another issue addressed. Members underscored the importance of obtaining more information from the finance committee and from directors of other senior centers for a broader perspective on financial strategies. There was a debate on the meeting schedule, with the committee deciding to meet on the 6th of June instead of the 30th of May. This decision was influenced by the need to define their feasibility study requirements and the urgency of proceeding with the Request for Information (RFI).

Lastly, the committee discussed the observations from the aging assessment regarding the accessibility of facilities in Lunenberg and Millis. The potential to locate the senior center within the state police crime lab building was considered, and the committee highlighted the need for meaningful discussions in future meetings to push forward with their objectives.