Fairfield Senior Center proposes new guest policy for visitors under 50

The Town Council of Fairfield, CT, convened on December 19, 2024, to discuss several key issues impacting the community, particularly focusing on the proposed visitor policy for the senior center. This meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to enhance community engagement while balancing the needs of existing members.

One of the primary topics was the introduction of a new policy allowing guests under the age of 50 to visit the senior center up to four times a year. This initiative aims to accommodate friends or family members of current members who wish to participate in activities such as card games or model airplane flying, while maintaining the center's focus on serving seniors. The proposed policy requires guests to register in advance, sign a waiver, and be accompanied by a member during their visit. However, guests will not be permitted to participate in paid programs or exercise classes.

Council members expressed concerns about the potential implications of this policy. Some voiced the need to ensure that the senior center remains primarily a space for seniors, emphasizing that it should not function as a recreational center for younger individuals. The discussions also touched on the administrative challenges of monitoring guest visits and maintaining accurate records, as well as the importance of clear communication regarding the policy to both members and potential guests.

In addition to the visitor policy, the council discussed the representation on the Board of Health, deciding to postpone any decisions until the new members join in January. This reflects the council's commitment to ensuring that all voices are heard and represented in future discussions.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's dedication to fostering a welcoming environment for seniors while carefully considering the implications of expanding access to younger guests. As the new visitor policy is set to be implemented, the council will monitor its impact and make adjustments as necessary to uphold the integrity of the senior center's mission.