Town of Payson Senior Center requests $135K funding for community programs

The Payson Town Council meeting on May 6, 2025, focused on the funding request for the Senior Center, highlighting its importance to the community. Janice Chesser, the Director of Development and Marketing, presented the center's budget needs, requesting $135,000 for the upcoming fiscal year. This amount represents 17% of the Senior Center's operating budget and is crucial for serving the town's residents, who make up 78% of the center's clientele.

Chesser provided key statistics on the center's services. Congregate meals, which allow seniors to gather for lunch, have increased by 2.36%, totaling 5,925 meals served to Payson residents aged 60 and over. In contrast, home-delivered meals have decreased by 14.52%, with 18,424 meals served. This decline is viewed positively, as the center aims to encourage seniors to visit for social interaction. Additionally, transportation services have seen an increase of 8.8%, providing 3,849 rides.

Chesser noted that over 40% of the Senior Center's annual budget comes from government entities, with contributions from the Town of Payson at 17% and additional support from the county and other sources totaling 39.12%. The discussion underscored the center's role in fostering community engagement and supporting the well-being of local seniors. The council's decision on the funding request will be crucial for maintaining these essential services.