Ridgecrest to trial extended senior center hours, city will seek improved outreach

The Ridgecrest Parks, Recreation and Quality of Life Committee reported on Oct. 7 that it would try extended hours at the senior center. At the Oct. 15 City Council meeting, Acting City Manager Travis Reid confirmed the senior center will test hours of 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Thursday for one month beginning the coming Monday.

Committee members and staff said the change responds to requests from seniors for earlier hours to increase participation. The committee reported a part-time employee began work recently and that staff would monitor attendance during the one-month trial and reevaluate the schedule afterward.

Committee discussion also included outreach and support proposals: public communication to inform seniors about hours and events, potential public transportation assistance to help seniors get to the center, and exploring whether a Social Security representative could attend monthly to help residents with questions. The parks report said staff would pursue those avenues; the council noted Social Security previously provided in-person assistance years ago but stopped because of agency budget cuts.

Other parks updates noted in the committee report included outfield-fencing work at Leroy Jackson Sports Complex with a forthcoming ribbon cutting and the transfer of the farmers market to a new operator starting Nov. 1.

Ending: City staff will monitor senior center attendance during the trial, report back to the council, and pursue outreach and transportation options that could improve access for seniors.