Mansfield Commission on Aging Minutes

                                                                                                 Monday, April 20, 2009

 

Attending: C. Pellegrine, M. Ross, S. Gordon, M. Thatcher, C. Phillips, T. Rogers, Holinko, J.Kenny, J. Quarto

Regrets: K. Grunwald, P. Richardson, T. Quinn

 

The meeting was called to order at 9:35 by vice-chair Pellegrine.

C. Phillips agreed to take notes.

T. Quinn is recovering after surgery.  The Commission looks forward to his early return.

The minutes of the March 9, 2009 meeting were moved to approval by M. Thatcher and. Phillips.  Accepted.

There was no correspondence.

New Business: The Mansfield 2020 Action Plan for Senior Services were reviewed and discussed:

Senior Center: a new facility, centrally located was preferred to the renovation of the present building or the relocation of a new building.

Board of Seniors: there is a need to redefine the responsibilities of the COA as a commission for the Human Services Dept. If senior needs are not being met.

Communication: this should be a priority for Human Services.  The use of technology is preferred to keeping a pamphlet up-dated.

Transportation: there is a need to expand services to less accessible areas.  Park and ride service was suggested.  Use of volunteer drivers was also considered.

Tax relief for seniors: check with Tax Dept. About present benefits.

Employment of seniors: encourage local businesses.

The vice chair asked that the Commission prioritize the Mansfield 2020 action plan based on need.  Agreed on:

1. Communication about health services

2. Transportation

3. New senior center

Optional Reports: Jean Ann Kenny reviewed her monthly reports for February and March, 2009. She distributed the agenda and minutes for the MCNR Advisory Committee meeting on 4/18/09 and the New Samaritan Board Report.

Old Business: The COA Long Range Plan 2007-2010.  The items are similar to Mansfield 2020 Action Plans for Senior Services. These were discussed under New Business.

Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 11:15 am.  Next meeting will be May 11 at 9:30 am.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Carol Phillips