City of Hibbing joins AARP Network of Age‑Friendly Communities, council accepts certificate

AARP representatives on Wednesday presented the city of Hibbing with a certificate confirming its acceptance into the AARP Network of Age‑Friendly Communities and asked the council to accept the recognition. Jay Hoppola, who identified himself as an AARP staff member for Minnesota, said AARP works on behalf of people aged 50 and older and that roughly 22–23% of Hibbing residents are over 65, based on his online reference. He said the network provides technical assistance and resources to communities that commit to work on age-friendly policies and programs. Hoppola was joined at the meeting by members of the local committee, including Amy Brownell (St. Louis County), Miriam Kiro (resident), Anne Bussey and Georgia Lane (Arrowhead Area Agency on Aging). Why it matters: Joining the network signals a municipal commitment to examine and pursue policies that support livable communities for older adults, including transportation, housing, and services. Council response: Mayor Hajdu and council members accepted the certificate; AARP requested a photo with council members and committee representatives at the meeting. No formal vote or funding commitment was recorded at the meeting; staff will work with the local committee and AARP on next steps. What’s next: AARP and the local committee will provide technical assistance and work with city staff and the council on implementing age‑friendly initiatives over time.