Council on Aging Board

December Council on Aging (COA) Advisory Board Meeting Agenda Monday December 13, 2021, at 9:00 AM at the Lowell Senior Center I. Roll Call Chairman, Andrew Hostetler, Director, Lillian Hartman, Board Members, Beverly Gonsalves, Judith Huber, Joyce Dastou on phone. Absent John Lawlor, Anne Marie Porter, Molyka Tieng, one vacancy. Visitor: John King II. Pledge of Allegiance III. Approval of Minutes: Working Meeting, not enough attendees to accept the minutes of the November 8, meeting. IV. Chairperson’s Report: Andy said that there is no vote on the Bylaws without a quorum. The Age Friendly Group and the Adult Action Group has had successful meetings. Andy. also proposed finding a retreat for Senior Board Members. There are conferences held in Stockbridge or Falmouth, Mass for these issues in October. Elder Services has changed their name to Age Span. Andy requested that Lil follow up with Human Resources for the board vacancy. Director’s Report: Lillian went over the Report for December. Visitor John King had questions for the Director. Did she suspend cards, cribbage? No, it was the Health Department’s observation and decision because members were not keeping their masks on when playing cards and cribbage. The Health Dept. reports to the City Manager and the Manager makes the decision concerning the wearing of masks in City Bldgs. John King questioned having the social on Friday’s. This is allowed because the number of attendees is low compared to holding a Dinner Dance. The number of Bingo players is lower now compared to before the Covid outbreak. Also, Bingo players and those attending classes are required to wear masks. Bingo is also suspended until at least mid January. Also, do seniors miss having a blood pressure check? Yes, but the Health Dept. is holding off until Covid is over and at present their staff is limited. Vi. Guest Presenter: None for December. VII. Committee Reports: a. Outreach: Cataldo will administer the vaccine booster here at the Senior Center on Thursday, December 16. b. HAC VII. Items for Discussion: a. Old Business b. New Business: There are many issues that can be reported to the City Manager and Neighborhood Services for those needing assistance. Some of these include: housing, trash, graffiti, pot holes, and junk cars on property. Neighborhood Services number is; (978)446-7243. To be Completed: Invitation for a January presenter. (Andy) Follow-up with HR on board appointments. (Lil Find board training opportunity. (Lil) IX. Other Adjournment: All were in favor. Next Meeting: Monday, January 10, 2022 @ 9:00 AM