A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the council’s outreach strategy for the proposed Reading Center for Active Living. The council discussed the legal implications of their activities, particularly concerning the use of public funds for promotional efforts. Members emphasized the need for clarity on permissible actions to avoid potential legal missteps. It was noted that public resources could not be used for campaigning, which posed a challenge for raising awareness about the new center. An attorney, previously consulted, outlined restrictions on the council’s engagement in outreach activities, prompting a discussion on the need for a clearer understanding of the ethics laws governing their actions.

Participants debated the possibility of using trust funds to finance mailings and other outreach methods. However, concerns were raised that these funds, although donated for specific purposes, might still be classified as public funds, limiting their use for promotional activities. The council agreed to draft questions for the town lawyer to address these legal ambiguities.

The council discussed various outreach methods, including letters to the editor, lawn signs, and mailings. While some members expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of lawn signs, others suggested that mailings had previously yielded strong community engagement. The group agreed to explore these options further, with a focus on direct mailings and potentially setting up an informational exhibit at the library. A proposal to form a “Cadre of 30 people” to regularly write letters to the editor was also considered, as this would not involve the use of public resources.

In parallel to the outreach discussion, the meeting also addressed the challenges of maintaining high engagement levels in elder services programming. The Elder and Human Services report highlighted a successful January, with over 3,000 duplicated instances of participation in various programs. Events such as the New Year’s lunch and a popular Valentine’s lunch were particularly noted for their high attendance, although concerns were raised about weather conditions affecting turnout.

Volunteer coordination was another focal point, with updates on the status of a volunteer coordinator’s position. The position, included in the budget with increased hours, would now offer the option for benefits. The council acknowledged the increasing number of volunteers and discussed the challenges of organizing appreciation events, given the larger volunteer base compared to previous years.

Additionally, the council touched on the impact of weather on seniors, particularly those living alone, and the importance of maintaining communication with those at risk during snowstorms. While some seniors manage their own snow removal, there was an acknowledgment of transportation challenges faced by those unable to drive. The council considered conducting a house-to-house survey to better understand the needs of this demographic, although the effort required for such a survey was recognized as significant.

The meeting also reviewed the schematic plans for the new building project, with attention to potential cost implications. While the design was praised for its appeal, there was a clear emphasis on the need for budget constraints to ensure that the community, particularly seniors on fixed incomes, could bear the costs. Upcoming presentations to the select board and public forums were outlined, highlighting the timeline for community engagement and decision-making on the project.