Gardner Senior Center board approves treasurer's report; staff warns Lifeline program may need support

The Gardner Senior Center board on March 2 approved the treasurer's report while staff warned the recently created Lifeline subscription fund could require additional support if projected revenues fall short.

Terry, speaking as treasurer, told the board the general fund is "in good shape so far" but flagged that several line items — including department head, administrative clerk, custodian and outreach coordinator salaries — are currently showing amounts over budget and may require a supplemental appropriation because the fiscal plan was based on last year's numbers and a recently negotiated union raise. "Mike has made proper transfers here and there, so we should be able to purchase a few things between now and the end of the year," Terry said when presenting the report.

The board recorded a $1,950 gift in February and, according to Terry, the gift fund balance is roughly $99,243.91 with $25,000 held in escrow to match a painting project at Waterford; the board previously authorized spending up to $25,000 for that work. The revolving fund and state grant pages were also reviewed and reconciled to the city accounting system (Munis); staff corrected a typographical monthly figure in the record.

Finance staff addressed the Lifeline account, which the city began operating on Jan. 1. The Lifeline presenter reported January subscription costs of $1,451 and described early revenue receipts; staff cautioned that projected subscription expenses for the remainder of the funding period could exceed predictable revenue if subscribers do not pay on schedule. Staff said they track late payments and pursue delinquent accounts, but that the program's fiscal outcome depends on continued payments.

"I can project expenses because I know my expenses. The revenue is really predicated on what people pay us," the Lifeline presenter said, noting the center has procedures to follow up on late payments and that most new subscriptions have been portable "on-the-go" devices rather than hardwired home units.

Director Michael gave an extended operations update describing how recent storms exposed maintenance needs but that the center was able to keep services running. Staff found a severely corroded manifold in the boiler room and staged repairs to preserve heat during subzero weather; two circulators were repaired, and a temporary arrangement with Haywood Hospital supplied hot water while a domestic hot-water boiler was repaired. Michael said the center managed circulation and heat by reconfiguring zones and using contractors to expedite work.

The director also reported completed emergency-exit repairs, ramp-support fixes and a membrane-roof seam issue that will be addressed once snow and ice permit rooftop work. He praised interdepartmental cooperation for snow removal and said the city's revised parking-ban timing allowed contractors to clear lots overnight and into the morning.

Board members asked clarifying questions during the discussion. Paul seconded the motion to accept the treasurer's report; the board approved the report by voice vote. The meeting also confirmed the next session for April 6 at 2 p.m. and adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

What happens next: staff said they expect to monitor spending lines closely and will return to the board if a supplemental appropriation is necessary; the Lifeline program will continue monthly monitoring of subscriber payments and device maintenance.