TOWN OF REDDING
COMMISSION ON AGING
MEETING MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, November 14, 2018
REDDING COMMUNITY CENTER
Commission members present:
Ingrid Heller & Karen de Friesse – Co-Chairs, Janet Metzger, Sarah Atwood, Rosalind Kopfstein, Hilda Rhodes, Jean Whitham and Mary Dale Lancaster,
Angelica Fontanez – Director of Social Services
Ruth Moran – Senior Center Program Coordinator
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m.
I. Approval of Minutes from October 2018
Hilda Rhodes, Jean Whitham – unanimous
II. Director’s Report – Angelica Fontanez reporting
Angelica talked about her monthly report – 14 applications for energy assistance, including 6 new applicants. Salvation Army grant renewed with additional funds from Hartford. The ALICE United Way grant renewed and that led to a discussion on need. Rosalind wondered if there was an assessment of needs or budgets formed setting priorities. Angelica said the client had to provide financial information. Janet wanted to know why new clients were preferred and Angelica said that new applicants showed an increase needed for funds.
A discussion began on the need for a town newsletter to replace the Pilot and how to get other groups interested in helping. Angelica said one of the local funds may be able to help with starting/continuing a newsletter.
A brief discussion on the budget and a need to increase program funding.
III. Senior Center Program Coordinator – R. Moran
Ruth discussed the current programs, fees and the need to do a better financial seminar. Ruth will reach out to the library and the staff at the High school. A new Spanish teacher is working out very well and Tai Chi continues to be well attended.
Another discussion centered on the maintenance of the facilities and the Van rules. Mary Dale and Sarah both felt that too much responsibility is being put on Angelica and wondered if there was anything the commission might do to impress upon the Selectmen of the need for a Maintenance Supervisor.
IV. Commissioner’s Report
Nothing at this time.
V. New Business
The discussion began on trying to recruit new members for the commission and Karen will start by asking Michele Grande to talk on what the requirements are needed and what the process entails
Mary Dale Lancaster updated the committee on transportation and the town requesting that she provide a survey. She is trying to get a comprehensive survey from Ridgefield.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 am.
The next COA meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, December 12, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. at Heritage Center.
Minutes prepared by Karen de Friesse