Jennifer, a community services staff member, updated the Wellington Senior Advisory Committee on the village27s free senior transportation program, which began May 21, 2024. "As of today, our complete rides are 16,276," she said, adding the service has carried 18,197 passengers to date.

Staff credited the addition of a third vehicle with lowering average wait times and increasing participation. "Since we've added the third car, we're at 26.84 [minutes]," Jennifer said. She contrasted that figure with earlier averages "closer to, like, the 35, 38" minute range before the third vehicle was introduced.

Committee members asked whether a fourth vehicle or a fixed mall shuttle had been considered. Jennifer said the department will continue to monitor demand and evaluate future options: "If we get to a certain position where we're able 26amp; capable of adding the fourth car, of course." Staff noted that some ideas discussed included larger multi-passenger shuttles for mall perimeter stops or regularly scheduled mall runs, which could be contracted if demand justified the cost.

Kyle, a community services staff member, reported broader program engagement: the New Year27s party drew roughly 277 registrants and about 200 people were already registered for the Valentine27s event on Feb. 12. Kyle highlighted other senior programming that supports social engagement, including an inaugural Senior Olympics that attracted about 602D70 participants across six events.

Staff outlined program capacity and funding sources: technology classes reached capacity (15 seats), and many senior activities are free because sponsorships from healthcare partners offset costs. Jennifer said the special-events budget for seniors is $52,000 annually and that sponsorships typically offset about $25,000 of that amount.

The committee asked staff to continue monitoring wait times and ridership, and to report back if program demand indicates a need for additional vehicles or a different shuttle model. The department also highlighted upcoming community events at the amphitheater, including the Wellington Irish Fest on March 7 and a Festa Italiana in April.