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Commission discusses using AARP grant and DEI forum to explain new housing law; Rotary commits bench funding
Summary
Members reported planning a DEI‑hosted housing forum using a new housing law as a focal point, noted existing grant funding from Farmington Savings Bank, and discussed combining outreach with planned bench installations funded by the Rotary and possible AARP Community Challenge grant work (e.g., grab‑bar installations).
Commission members updated each other on housing‑related outreach and funding opportunities and discussed whether to pursue an AARP Community Challenge grant tied to direct interventions.
Speaker 3 reported reviewing a new housing law that took effect Jan. 1 and said the DEI council and town manager support holding a housing forum to explain the law’s local impact. "We thought maybe using the new law as the focal point...to bring people in," Speaker 3 said.
Speaker 3 also said the commission still has grant funds remaining from a Farmington Savings Bank award that could underwrite forum activity. Separately, Speaker 2 reported that the Simsbury/Granby Rotary has committed $9,000 per year for three years toward bench installations around town and described plans to coordinate placement with town staff and the senior center.
Members discussed applying to AARP’s Community Challenge grant window (opens in January and closes in March) and noted an Ohio example where a grant paid for fire‑department installation of grab bars, which the speaker said reduced fall‑related calls by 81% and lowered EMS use by 50%. The commission agreed the challenge grant could support a combination of educational and practical interventions if the town and partners will participate.
Next steps include confirming available grant dollars, firming a target scope for any AARP application and scheduling a DEI‑hosted housing forum to coincide with community interest and the available funding window.
