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Mound approves $10,000 for Gillespie Center; director reports membership, programming gains
Summary
Council agreed to a $10,000 contribution for the Gillespie Center’s 2026 budget after director Rhonda Nelson briefed the council on membership growth, improved finances and upcoming 25th-anniversary fundraising events.
The Mound City Council voted Sept. 9 to commit $10,000 to the Gillespie Center for 2026, following a presentation from Director Rhonda Nelson on the senior center’s finances and programming.
Nelson told the council the center—while still centered on seniors—has broadened programs to include intergenerational activities, health services and marketing outreach; she said membership is up and the center operated “in the green” this year for the first time in several years. “This year was our first year that we're operating in the green for many years,” Nelson said.
Why it matters: The Gillespie Center serves residents with programming, health screenings and community events; the council’s financial support is part of a multi-jurisdictional funding mix that includes neighboring cities.
Nelson reviewed four strategic goals: increase membership, improve financial results, grow programming usage and increase the net promoter score (NPS). She said the center’s attendance at programs is up about 40% versus its goal and the NPS rose sharply year-over-year. The center highlighted a fundraising calendar that includes a 25th-anniversary celebration and recurring events such as a spring cruise and quarterly lunches.
Council discussion focused on budget timing. Council members signaled support for a $10,000 commitment after staff noted other nearby cities contributed to the center’s budget; Mayor Holt and council members voted to approve the commitment. A motion to commit $10,000 to the Gillespie Senior Center for 2026 passed on a voice vote.
Ending: Nelson invited council members to the center’s 25th-anniversary celebration Oct. 1 at 1 p.m.; the council said it will finalize the appropriation as part of the upcoming budget process.
