The feasibility study, presented by architectural consultant Joel Bargman, highlighted the inadequacy of the current Genesee Street building to serve the town’s senior population. With an estimated 7,760 seniors in the community, the current 4,000 square-foot space falls short of the required 18,000 square feet needed to meet programmatic goals, even before the addition of a gym. Bargman’s presentation, which focused on the site evaluation criteria, brought to light the challenges and advantages of multiple potential sites. The Pleasant Street location was noted for its limited space for expansion and parking challenges. Oakland Road was recognized for its topographical challenges and possible noise pollution from a nearby rifle range. The site near the arena, while historically significant as a former Nike missile site, was not expected to have major obstacles but did raise historical concerns.

Further discussions about potential sites revealed various issues. One particular site was scrutinized for its large wetland area, which would necessitate raising the building to account for the possibility of rising wetlands due to climate change. The need to bring utilities to the site, along with the visibility, frontage, and environmental impact, including lead and residue testing, became points of contention. The costs of site preparation and long-term operational expenses were compared, with some members of the community expressing doubt about the town’s capability to fund the Center alongside other multi-million dollar projects, such as the Kilm School and high school project.

Residents voiced their apprehensions about the potential impact of construction on the neighborhood, particularly in terms of traffic and the tranquility of the area. The potential loss of greenery, habitat, and the impact of blasting on nearby houses were also of significant concern. Furthermore, the need for a comprehensive traffic impact assessment was underscored, especially considering the proximity of the proposed Senior Center to the ongoing Kil School project.

The financial aspect also took center stage with discussions about the town’s financial capacity to undertake such a project. With an estimated cost of $9 million for the Kiln School project alone, the addition of the Senior Center and high school projects raised concerns about the town’s budgetary constraints. The Simon Way location was identified as problematic due to the anticipated increase in traffic from two active projects in the same area. The potential impact on residential neighborhoods, including the removal of trees and property values, was also a issue.

Additional matters addressed during the meeting included the sale of a property with survey lines possibly encroaching on a driveway and a unique suggestion to consider a shooting range near a pickleball court to improve seniors’ motor skills. The construction timeline, estimated at 14 to 18 months, brought up discussions on noise level regulations and the rush in decision-making. Members of the community did not hold back their concerns about the impact on property values and the congestion and noise resulting from construction.

Creative solutions were also proposed, such as exploring alternative locations for the senior center, considering the overcrowded and limited current facility. The idea of combining Department of Public Works departments with neighboring Wakefield to free up space was suggested.