Senior center updates code of conduct to clarify restrooms, showers and enforcement

The Iowa City Senior Center commission approved an updated code of conduct that revises wording on restroom and sink use, establishes a one‑hour limit for shower room use, clarifies staff enforcement authority, and seeks additional staff training and partnerships to improve responses to patrons in crisis.

Latasha, the center director, told the commission the amendment was small but important and had been reviewed by the city attorney’s office. “We just wanted to add using public restroom, sinks, or fountains for personal hygiene,” she said, explaining the change was intended to keep drinking fountains and shared fixtures sanitary and to clarify options for people seeking assistance.

Members discussed how the policy affects people experiencing homelessness. Latasha stressed the intent is not to exclude people: “I would never want anyone to say that we specifically did anything because we were trying to prevent our unhoused folks being able to have access to the senior center,” she said, and described staff efforts to greet and connect new visitors with services when possible.

The policy also updates expectations for service animals and sets a one‑hour limit on shower room use to balance access. Enforcement is described as staff asking patrons to adjust behavior and, for serious safety concerns or violent acts, temporary removal or referral to police/EMS when a health check or immediate response is needed.

Commissioners pressed for staff preparedness; a member asked whether staff had Naloxone training and Latasha said the center is coordinating with the public library and partner organizations for overdose‑response and de‑escalation training. Speaker 3 pointed out the Iowa Harm Reduction Coalition offers free training and Naloxone kits and encouraged the commission to pursue that resource.

Speaker 5 moved to approve the code of conduct policy and Speaker 3 seconded; the commission approved the update by voice vote.