Committee approves minutes, 2026 program rates and a budget transfer for electrical work and office remodel

The Portage County senior center advisory committee approved three items during its December meeting: minutes from Nov. 6, 2025; proposed 2026 program rate changes; and a budget transfer to pay for electrical outlets and an office remodel.

Minutes: The committee moved and seconded approval of the minutes of Nov. 6, 2025; the chair called for the question and members voted 'aye' with no opposing votes recorded. The motion carried and the minutes were approved.

Program rates: Staff presented proposed 2026 fee changes for classes. Many offerings will see no change or a $1 increase; art classes with higher supply costs will increase more (examples cited included increases for acrylic and pottery classes). The director noted scholarship availability for members who cannot afford fees. A motion to adopt the proposed 2026 rates was moved, seconded and the committee voted 'aye'; the rates were approved.

Budget transfer and facilities work: Staff requested using fund balance to pay for electrical outlets to reduce trip hazards and to remodel a manager's office so it can accommodate a sit-stand device. The director said available fund balance will cover the cost and that the request would go to the Finance Committee. A motion related to the transfer was moved and seconded; members voted in favor.

Procedural notes: Motions and votes were recorded verbally; the transcript does not record mover or seconder names for these motions, nor an itemized roll-call vote tally. The committee set the next meeting for Jan. 8 at 4:00 PM.