Nonprofit says senior program served 1,992 meals; seeks $5,000 line item and city help with street vacation

Amanda Clear, representing the nonprofit Third and Center, told the Ironton City Council the senior-center program has provided 1,992 meals since the nonprofit took over operations last November and asked the city for formal support as the group moves to expand services.

"Since taking over the senior center last November we have provided 1,992 meals to seniors in our community," Clear said, describing partnerships with local restaurants and organizations and saying the program has created opportunities for socialization and access to community resources.

Clear said Stellar Events and Catering, owned by local native Kylie Brown, has become the second small business certified to operate from the senior center and will take over meal preparation, which Third and Center said opens the possibility of federal grant funding through the area agency on aging.

Third and Center asked council to add a $5,000 line item to the Recreation budget for the 2025 program year and requested guidance on two actions needed to renovate the Bartom warehouse, which the nonprofit said it is closing on: (1) completion or confirmation of a public-utility survey and (2) council action on a street vacation adjacent to the property to allow accessible entrances and parking.

Clear said the nonprofit submitted a public-utility survey and legal description on June 24, 2024, and asked staff for direction because she had not received confirmation. Councilmembers asked staff to circulate the project packet and clarify whether any utilities are located in the area to be vacated before council takes formal action.

Council did not take a final vote on the street vacation or the requested budget line during the meeting; members asked staff to follow up and circulate documentation.