Residents urge board to delay ENCORE adult day program closure, call it a ‘lifeline’

Multiple community members submitted written comments and urged the township to extend the planned closure of the ENCORE adult day program, saying the program provides essential daily services to people living with dementia and other complex needs and is a critical respite resource for caregivers.

Trustee (speaker 4) read letters into the record from residents who said closing ENCORE without a transition plan would harm vulnerable individuals and their families. Mary Crate, whose letter was read at the meeting, wrote: "Eliminating adult ENCORE service is a tragic disservice to our community, families, and seniors." Another letter from Debbie Wallet asked the board to "extend the closure deadline of the ENCORE adult day care services until a qualified partner can be found to continue this essential care," suggesting a six‑month extension beyond Aug. 27, 2025.

Submitters described ENCORE as a well‑established program run for decades by Waterford Schools and as "a lifeline for families" that protects participants' dignity and provides structure. Letters cited concerns about staff experience, continuity of care, and the difficulty for families to find suitable replacements quickly. One letter noted that the program’s insurance carrier previously listed it as an approved participating agency, questioning the board’s characterization of certification gaps.

Board members acknowledged receipt of the letters and said they hoped to have more information after a planned Catholic services vote related to Encore. The board did not take a vote to extend the closure date during the meeting; trustees said they would continue to pursue transition options and expected follow‑up discussions.

What’s next: residents asked for up to a six‑month extension of the Aug. 27, 2025 deadline to allow a partner to be found; trustees indicated they would seek more information but did not adopt a formal extension at this meeting.