Senior services budget holds present programs but flags driver shortages and vehicle costs

Senior and social services staff told the Board of Selectmen on Jan. 29 that they submitted a minimal budget that preserves current program levels but may not be sustainable without additional staffing, particularly CDL-licensed van drivers.

"I did come in with, as low of a budget as possible," the presenter said, describing a plan that keeps staffing and service levels steady while acknowledging transportation remains the program’s largest expense. The department reported being able to lower some line items using historical utilization, and credited the nonprofit Senior Inc. with helping offset supply costs.

The department currently has limited backup for drivers: "We really do need more van drivers," the presenter said, noting that with only one CDL driver and a second driver without CDL certification, the program sometimes must deny rides or outsource trips at a higher cost. Outsourcing has been used when vehicle or medical issues prevented in-house coverage and was described as "way more expensive."

Revenue sources include modest donations (a donations line was described at about $1,000 per year) and a DOT transportation grant described as roughly $11,000 annually, paid in two installments. The department also flagged storage and space issues caused by a busy food pantry and significant vehicle repair costs that impacted service availability last year.

Board members asked whether adding a driver would materially increase payroll; staff said it could, depending on the projected hours. The department will continue to seek grant and in-kind support and will update the board if staffing or service constraints require program reductions.

Next steps: Budget deliberations will continue; the board asked for department head reviews to be completed and tied to any discretionary salary increases for nonunion staff before votes on pay changes.