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Carlsbad Senior Commission names new leadership, hears wide-ranging senior-center report
Summary
At its Feb. 26 meeting the City of Carlsbad Senior Commission accepted nominations for 2026 officers, heard a report on senior-center programming and finances (special revenue fund balance $528,503.89), approved a schedule change for the Aug. 27 meeting and noted a commissioner vacancy with applications due March 6.
The City of Carlsbad Senior Commission on Feb. 26 accepted nominations for 2026 leadership, heard a detailed presentation on senior-center programs and finances, and approved a special meeting time change for Aug. 27.
Staff introduced the appointments agenda and recognized the recent passing of commissioner Nelson Ross, saying a certificate of appreciation would be provided to his family. "We do have a certificate of appreciation that staff will be giving to his remaining family members," staff member Ashley Biggins said during the meeting. The commission then accepted nominations from the floor and appointed a commissioner to serve as chair for 2026 and appointed Commissioner Cheryl Dillon as vice chair for terms ending December 2026.
The appointment process followed the recommended action to "accept nominations from the floor and adopt resolutions appointing a chair and a vice chair of the senior commission for term ending December 2026," Eric Bagan told the commission. The chair congratulated the newly appointed officers after the motion carried.
Staff and senior-center leadership gave an extensive programs update. Supervisor Andy Koehler described offerings that included contract classes (computer and phone-app workshops), recurring fitness and arts programs, and new partnerships with local organizations such as Persian Place and the Institute of Contemporary Art San Diego. Koehler highlighted recent special events: a senior prom organized with the Carlsbad Rotary Club and Sage Creek High School, which registered 56 participants plus walk-ins, and a courtyard concert series and excursions that drew large attendance.
Koehler also presented the center's recent fund activity and attendance context. "Current balance of our special revenue fund is $528,503.89," he said, and reported $100 in donations for the month, $6,345 in miscellaneous revenue (primarily fitness memberships), and $5,240 in expenditures. Staff explained monthly changes usually reflect the number of weekdays and program scheduling rather than structural budget shifts.
The report covered transportation and outreach: the center averages about 10 patrons per day on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for transportation services; staff described coordinated rides for homebound participants to attend events such as the prom and scheduled excursions. Staff said they are working to expand programming to other community centers over the next six months to reduce crowding at the main senior center.
On scheduling, staff said the commission has a conflict with the Aug. 27 regular meeting and proposed switching that day's meeting to 5 p.m. A commissioner moved to call a special meeting in lieu of the Aug. 27 regular meeting and set the special meeting for 5 p.m.; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously.
The commission heard announcements about volunteer appreciation events and was reminded that applications for the open commission seat are due March 6; the appointment is expected to be decided by the City Council at its April 14 meeting. The chair adjourned the meeting at 3:40 p.m.
Next steps: staff will provide details on the Aug. 27 special meeting schedule if confirmed, and the City Council is slated to consider the commissioner appointment on April 14.
