TOWN OF REDDING
COMMISSION ON AGING
MEETING MINUTES
WEDNESDAY, January 9, 2019
REDDING COMMUNITY CENTER
Commission members present:
Ingrid Heller & Karen de Friesse – Co-Chairs, Jean Whitham, Hilda Rhodes, Sarah Atwood, Jean Rexon and Mary Dale Lancaster
Visitor: Kathy Brandt
Angelica Fontanez – Director of Social Services
Ruth Moran – Senior Center Program Coordinator
Julia Pemberton – First Selectman
The meeting was called to order at 9:00 a.m.
Approval of Minutes from Dec 2018
-to be approved at February meeting
I. Jean Rexford
Jean opened the meeting with some remarks that followed last year’s “End of Life Series” held at the Heritage Center. The AMA and other groups are reviewing their policies and Jean sensed there may be a change soon. Jean also brought up a possible online meeting app and how we could use, leading the discussion to “Real Redding 411” and the benefits of online info services.
Jean also brought up ambulance rules and which hospital was used; Julia filled in with basic protocol. Easton/Redding border would go to Bridgeport or St. Vincent Hospital, Georgetown to Norwalk but most case are transported to Danbury. EMS usually has the final say depending on the case. Julia suggested we contact Ron Van Oostendorp or Sharon McKenny for clarification. Karen suggested inviting new CT senator, Anne Hughes, recently appointed to the CT Aging Commission and the Human Services Commission, who could answer how the regional designations are formed. Karen will email Anne to see if she is available to visit.
Continuing the open discussion, Kathy Brandt stated she had read the bylaws and sees no reason for political bias as a factor in Commission appointees. Co-chairs will follow up. Jean had spoken to Michael Thompson regarding Republican nominees but as yet no one has stepped forward. Ingrid wanted to remind members of their responsibility to attend meetings each month and Karen will send out an email.
II. Senior Center Program Coordinator – R. Moran
Ruth discussed the current programs and attendance. Although the Holiday Luncheon was well attended, Ruth had hoped more people would come. All the other programs have stable attendance and different methods were discussed as to how to increase attendance.
Ruth noted the revenue statistics are in line with the budget. Ruth also informed the group she gave gratuities to unpaid program instructors in recognition of their contributions.
There was also a discussion on snow procedures and how to publicize, with Ruth informing the group that you can call the office and information is dispersed. Mary Dale thought a delay should be in the bulletin.
The need for a program on new Income Tax laws had Mary Dale recommend Peg O’Donnell and another program on the Redding Senior Tax credit is being researched by both Ruth and Karen.
III. Director’s Report – Angelica Fontanez reporting
Angelica talked about her monthly report – 1 long term care candidate she is currently working with, 15 food pantry users and 8 oil/electric requests.
She is currently working on a holiday and year end “thank you” letter, hoping to include everyone. When asked how the food pantry is doing, Angelica noted the large monetary donations along with food items. She continued with a brief overview of the budget and informed the commission of the Friday, January 11 budget meeting at 1:15 hoping commission members will show up for support.
IV. Commissioner’s Report
Nothing at this time.
V. New Business
At the end of the meeting, the issue of cleaning and maintenance was again brought up. Angelica stated a professional cleaning service will do the kitchen and there is some outside painting to be done. Julia discussed her hope for a town wide Facilities Director position and how work needs to be done on the Centers HVAC system.
The meeting was adjourned at 10:15 am.
The next COA meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 13, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. at Heritage Center.
Minutes prepared by Karen de Friesse