Worcester County seeks $2M budget increase for senior services amid staffing changes

The Worcester County Budget Workshop held on April 1, 2025, focused on the proposed fiscal year 2026 budget, which seeks an overall increase of $288,507, or 16.2%. This increase is attributed to a projected rise in grant revenue of 1.7% and a requested expenditure increase of 16.4%.

During the meeting, officials expressed gratitude for the support received from the commissioners, emphasizing the importance of services provided to seniors and disadvantaged individuals in the community. The discussion highlighted the various programs that go beyond basic needs, such as meals and transportation, aiming to improve the quality of life for those served.

Deputy Director John Dorough presented a detailed breakdown of the budget variances. He noted that the operational expenses for the Worcester Commission on Aging would see a modest increase of 4.1%. Significant fluctuations in salaries and fringe accounts were attributed to the pending retirement of three long-term managers, which will lead to the elimination of one position and a reallocation of funds to departments experiencing growth in services.

The budget also included a request for partial funding of $23,432 for two new part-time transportation aide positions at the adult day center, addressing the increasing number of Alzheimer’s patients requiring additional safety measures during transportation.

In terms of capital expenditures, the budget outlines a local match of $104,600 for the biannual transportation grant, which will fund the purchase of two buses and one van for the Worcester Transportation program, aimed at assisting the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on insurance costs, revealing a projected increase of $31,338 for the upcoming fiscal year. Overall, the workshop underscored the county's commitment to enhancing services for its vulnerable populations while navigating budgetary constraints. Further discussions and decisions regarding the budget will continue in upcoming meetings.