Senior Solutions proposes converting former school at 205 John Street into new senior center; committee votes to refer to full council

Senior Solutions told the Public Works committee it can renovate 205 John Street (a former school building) to operate a congregate meal site and expanded senior programming, but asked the city for assistance with capital work and certain maintenance functions. The presenter, Mr. Wright, described the facility changes Senior Solutions would undertake—roof, HVAC, electrical, new floors, and accessibility upgrades—and requested city support for site access, parking and some exterior work: "But we're gonna need the city's help... I believe it's called Main Street, into the parking lot behind the facility." He said the group expects to run a yearly operating deficit and estimated the shortfall: "we would be running a deficit about $33,000 or more every year, and we'll be committed to do that."

Committee members asked operational questions about hours, staffing and parking demand; staff indicated a likely daily attendance of roughly 25–30 participants at peak times and suggested a parking area sized for about 25 cars with a van/unloading area for wheelchair transport. Committee discussion covered tree removal, contractor costs and fire-code requirements for structural changes. After discussion, a committee member moved and another seconded a recommendation to forward the Senior Solutions proposal to the full council; the voice vote was recorded in favor. The committee also asked for copies of the presentation and for staff to coordinate follow-up with department heads and the city's fire marshal for code and access questions.