Senior Affairs Commission

ROSE CITY SENIOR CENTER 8 Mahan Drive, Norwich, Connecticut 06360 (860) 889-5960
fax: (860) 885-1160 SENIOR AFFAIRS COMMISSION Meeting of March 20, 2017 Members in Attendance: Regular members: Secretary Margaret Aldrich, Vice Chairperson Gen Bergendahl, Frank Jacaruso, P. Michael Lahan and Jacquelyn Randall. Alternate member Laurieann Messore Attending staff members were Mike Wolak and Leeann Gomes Vice Chairperson Gen Bergendahl determined there was a quorum and called the meeting to order. Minutes: The minutes from 10-17-2016 were approved. Communications: Mike read a thank you letter from a client that used the out-of- town medical transportation program. The letter was sent along with a $50.00 donation to the Senior Center. Mike reminded the group about the program that is funded through the State of CT- DOT and is combined with the Town of Montville to provide medical transportation to residents of Norwich, Uncasville and Montville. Human Services Report: LeeAnn thanked the group for taking the Ethics training and offered the printouts to those who do not have computer access. She talked about the State and local budget. No specific changes for the Sr. Center but may add some staffing to Adult and Family Services as well as the Rec. She did ask for a PT Administrative person at the SC but that was not approved. Laurieann came in at this time and we paused to do introductions. LeeAnn informed the commission about 3 groups renting the center and the money coming back to the center. She also explained how the center is staffed during these events. There was discussion about the approval process to start renting out the center and Leeann and Mike said it was approved by the City Manager and the Corporation Counsel. Laurieann volunteered to be of assistance during events if necessary. She brought forth the information about the Affordable Care Act and changes affecting seniors. She asked the group to be advocates from the seniors and to talk to local legislators about their concerns. Senior Center Report: Mike talked about the success of the St. Patrick’s Day event. Made around $1,500 profit. Senior Center looking into purchasing a digital message board and pay for it from the Lyman estate money. We received almost $1,000 from Al Gualtieri’s family and friends Annual Volunteer Breakfast will be on April 25 and invitations will go out in the next couple weeks. Mike applied for a grant from the Lord Foundation and received $10,000 for Golden Wishes. Golden wishes is a 1x per year assistance up to $250 for a senior in need. All applications for assistance are screened by our Outreach administrator and ultimately approved by LeeAnn. It has been used for such things as utilities, air conditioners, medical bills, etc. We received a $500 donation from the family of Rheta McDade AARP gave a $300 donation as well as CSEA a $400 donation for the use of our dining room for their monthly meetings. The money stays here and is used for programs and services for our seniors. Chairperson’s Report/Legislative Report: Gen brought up elections and Mike stated that September is the time for elections of positions on the Senior Affairs Commission. She congratulated Frank on his appointment as a regular member. Old Business: Frank brought up the communications and some not receiving their information regarding the meetings. Mike will look into in and shore it up. Frank asked about reminders for membership dues. Mike stated they start putting reminders and applications in the newsletter beginning in May. New Business: NONE Next Meeting: Monday, April 17, 2017 at 9:00 a.m., at the Rose City Senior Center. Respectfully submitted, Margaret Aldrich / acb Margaret Aldrich, Secretary MA/acb Regular meetings of the Commission are scheduled on the 3rd Monday of Mar/Apr/May and Sept/Oct/Nov