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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-02-11 Council On Aging Minutes Council on Aging Board Meeting Monday February 11, 2013 Reading Senior Center Game Room Present: Steve Oston, Carol Oniskey, Margaret Havey, Erica Deane, Tom Procopio, Dolly DeRosa, Sally Hoyt, Jane Burns (Staff) Absent: Carole Scrima, Kevin Walsh Guest: Bill Hecht, MVES Representative Call to Order: 6:30 PM Minutes: Accepted and Approved for January 2013 *Margaret Havey’s name is misspelled. Administrator to remove “r” from last name “Havey” Elder Services Report: Accepted and Approved for January 2013 Financial Report: Accepted and Approved for January 2013 Old Business:  Chair updated the Board in regards to the open COA position and stated that there are currently three potential candidates interested in the position.Chair to contact the Town Manager in regards to the Boards ability to meet potential candidates or to ask that they attend at least one meeting prior to their appointment.  Administrator provided the Board with an update regarding the Kitchen/Pleasant St. Ctr. Renovation and stated that the kitchen portion of the renovation is to begin the week after St. Patrick’s Day. New Business:  MVES representative Bill Hecht updated the Board on MVES on-going efforts and fundraising goals; reminded the Board that MVES offers tax assistance for seniors and discussed the slight decrease that MVES has seen in their congregate meals. MVES is currently discussing strategies in order to evolve with the changing needs of seniors in an attempt to meet their current needs and wants for meals.  Administrator stated that more entertainment as well as the Pleasant Street Center being open on days such as Christmas Eve and poor weather days may be possible reasons for slight increase in lunch participation.  Administrator stated that the DPW was extremely supportive and responsive to the Pleasant Street Center’s needs during the February Blizzard. The DPW replaced the tires on the van previous to the storm, and plowed the parking lot with special attention to the handicap spots and the van spot.  Administrator updated the Board on the Trust’s interest payouts and stated that the trusts are invested 80% bonds and 20% stocks and that they are expecting a 2.7% overall interest rate for the year on the portfolio. The payouts are expected in August (will be seen in September on statement) and February (to be seen in March on statement).  Administrator informed the Board that a possible new program titled “Lunch and Learn” may begin within the next few months. The program would occur once a month at lunch with various speakers discussing one topic per lunch for approximately 20mins. th  March is the 20 anniversary of the Pleasant Street Center building. Board discussed a possible dedication in June once the kitchen renovation and the painting of the great room is complete.  Administrator discussed the possibility of an art contest for the dedication event where Reading resident artists of all ages and abilities would be asked to paint the Center. The inter-generational program would be promoted through the school system utilizing the art teachers as well as through the Reading Art Association. Art would be judged based on different categories and gift cards would be given to various Reading venues as prizes for winners.  Administrator stated that Harrows was willing to donate 30 individual chicken pot pies at th no charge for the Easter meal delivery on March 30.  A motion was made by Tom Procopio to allocate $150.00 from the Schroeder Fund for a nd pastry/muffin enhancement for the Easter meal delivery. The motion was 2 by Erica Deane and the motion passed with 7-0 in favor. th  Chair asked for volunteers from the Board to deliver the Easter meals on March 30. Please contact the Chair if you are able.  Administrator stated that a Shine member from MVES intends to attend the March COA meeting as an informational speaker. nd  Administrator requested volunteers from the Board to 2 interview candidates for the Social Worker position. Tom Procopio, Erica Deane and Steve Oston volunteered. Adjournment: 7:29 PM Next Meeting: March 11, 2013 Respectfully Submitted, Erica Deane, Vice-Chairman