Gardner senior center accepts financial report; details technology grant, Chromebooks and FY2026 budget requests

The Gardner Senior Center Council on Aging board accepted the center's financial report and discussed a recently awarded technology grant, proposed FY2026 budget increases and program updates at a regularly scheduled meeting.

Board members voted to accept the financial report after a staff presentation showing the center's current account balances and recent spending. According to the figures presented, the general fund budget is $217,000, of which about $99,000 has been spent, leaving roughly $118,000 available for operating expenses. The gift fund began the period with about $79,250, received additional income during December and had a reported balance of $87,240.74. The revolving fund balance was reported at about $45,859.96, with $511.25 reserved for trips and excursions.

The meeting also included an extended explanation of a technology grant and related purchases. Staff described a portable audiovisual (AV) cart the center purchased to allow multi-camera, remotely controlled capture of classes and events and direct integration with Zoom so homebound participants can join…