Commission approves $15,000 county match to sustain senior meal programs over objections

The Harvey County Board of Commissioners voted 2–1 on Jan. 6 to provide $5,000 to each of the county’s three senior centers—Newton, Hesston and Sedgwick—to support congregate and home-delivered meals.

Lona Kelly, Harvey County Department of Aging Director, said the Central Plains Area Agency on Aging (CPAAA) is planning to provide a $5,000 stipend per agency but that amount would not cover the estimated local administrative costs. "The matching funds will be used to support part-time staff at each senior center ... to manage the administrative and operational details of the congregate and home-delivered meals program in compliance with OAA nutrition requirements," Kelly said. She told commissioners the request is intended to ensure the programs can continue through 2026.

Commissioner Terry Scott moved to approve the funding request and amended the motion to direct staff to begin immediate payment of the stipend amounts. Chairman Don Schroeder seconded the motion; the measure passed with Commissioners Schroeder and Scott in favor and Commissioner Becky Reimer opposed. Reimer said she is not in favor of the county providing non-budgeted tax dollars and urged centers to seek other community or city funding sources.

Supporters from the public comment period told the commission the meal programs provide nutritious meals and social interaction for seniors and operate on very limited budgets. Dan Hartman asked the commission to approve the additional funding, and Lynne Beth, Newton Area Senior Center Director, highlighted the operational strain and need for immediate funds.

The board noted the stipends are intended to support compliance with the Older Americans Act (OAA) nutrition requirements while local agencies pursue other funding. The vote authorizes county staff to disburse the matching funds immediately.