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Select Board discusses joining AARP age-friendly network; asks staff for a concrete plan
Summary
The board heard a presentation on joining AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly Communities and asked senior services staff to return with a more concrete needs assessment approach and collaboration plan with the Council on Aging before voting.
The Select Board reviewed a staff proposal to enroll the town in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities, a program and resource network that helps municipalities assess and plan for older residents across eight domains including housing, transportation and civic engagement.
Senior Center Director Carol Grunek outlined how the program works: communities complete a needs assessment, develop an action plan and then pursue projects and possible AARP grants. Grunek said enrollment signals a commitment to consider older adults in planning and can strengthen grant applications.
Board members raised questions about the likely staff and volunteer time required, whether the Council on Aging could absorb the work or whether a new, dedicated committee would be needed, and whether a needs assessment might require budgeted funds. Members asked staff to consult the Council on Aging and return with a defined approach before any enrollment vote.
