Selectmen support Aging and Disability Commission's three‑year age‑friendly action plan

The Simsbury Board of Selectmen on July 14 accepted receipt of an age‑friendly community action plan prepared by the Aging and Disability Commission and voted to support the commission’s submission to AARP. The plan lays out a three‑year (2025–2027) set of actions and metrics intended to improve livability for older adults and residents with disabilities.

Subcommittee chair Jan Beatty (age‑friendly subcommittee) presented an overview and said the plan was prepared through resident surveys, focus groups and outreach to local partners. The draft plan identifies goals across domains of livability — housing, transportation, public spaces, and civic participation — and proposes metrics the commission will track. Board members asked clarifying questions about specific items, including language related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and property‑tax measures; commission members said the plan’s proposals are intended as action recommendations and would require separate policy or zoning changes before implementation.

The board unanimously approved a motion to accept the plan’s receipt and support the commission’s finalization of the age‑friendly designation paperwork for AARP. Selectmen emphasized that any items requiring funding or zoning changes would return to the board for separate review during budget or land‑use processes.

Commissioners said the plan will guide outreach, pilot programs and coordination with town departments; they also said community partners reviewed and supplied feedback during the plan’s development. The board asked staff to note which items would need financial approvals and to return with implementation reporting or requests as needed.