Selectman highlights demand and wait lists for Commission on Aging programs

At the June 17 meeting, board member Rosanne reported on recent Commission on Aging activity and statistics, saying many of the commission's trips and programs are full and maintain waiting lists.

"We're very fortunate to have a very active Commission on Aging that really functions on a limited budget for all that they do," Rosanne said, urging the board to "pay more attention" to senior services and allocation of taxpayer dollars. She listed frequent trips (Culinary Institute of America, New York Botanical Gardens, Boston tall ships, Hudson River cruises and local festivals) and said those programs often reach capacity, leaving some residents on waiting lists.

Rosanne cited demographic figures presented at a recent commission meeting, reporting that 34% of the town's profile population is over 60 and that a notable share of residents are in older cohorts; she also noted that residents living in residential facilities such as Bridebrook are considered town residents and may vote if able. The figures were presented as context for recommending attention to service capacity and funding priorities.

The report concluded with a brief note about the Samuel Smith Farmstead's 50th annual vintage tractor and trailer event and a preview that planning and zoning materials would be posted online following a lengthy developer presentation.

Rosanne said she would bring additional planning-and-zoning details to a future meeting.