Elder Affairs Board Discusses Programs, Center Upgrades, and New Staff
Key Points
- The board is working to improve communication through social media and event reminders, while also addressing ongoing issues with the phone system and security cameras.
- An offer has been extended for the vacant part-time social worker position, with a potential start in January.
- Recent programming, including a woodworking class, has been highly successful, prompting discussions about offering more diverse activities.
- Facility updates include the addition of new handicapped parking spaces and contracting a company for regular cleaning of the kitchen's ice machine.
- The recent Holiday Art Fair was a success, with positive feedback from vendors and attendees hoping for its return next year.
The Cohasset Elder Affairs Board convened on Dec. 8, 2025, for a productive meeting focused on programming, facility upgrades, and community communication. Before approving routine business, a board member raised a concern about the center’s new security cameras, asking, "Have we ever turned on the cameras? We've spent a lot of money on that." The director confirmed that access was still being configured by the town's facilities department. A motion to accept the minutes passed 11-0. Subsequently, a motion to accept the treasurer's report passed 11-0. The board also began a new initiative to acquaint themselves with staff, welcoming Administrative Assistant Morgan, who described her primary role as handling the center's accounts payable.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to enhancing community engagement and programming. Board members discussed reviving regular social media posts and event reminders. Associate Member David Bigley noted the absence of regular communications for groups like Bocce and Cornhole, recalling that Member Richard Hynes had previously been diligent in sending notices. The recent woodworking workshop was highlighted as a success, with Bigley, a participant, calling the experience "awesome" and "great." High praise was also given to the center’s chef, Joan, with a member stating she is doing a "terrific job" and that patrons "rave" about the desserts.
Operational and facility matters were also addressed. The director reported that an offer has been made for the vacant social worker position and expressed hope that it would be filled soon. The board held a lengthy discussion on implementing name tags for staff, volunteers, and patrons to foster a more familiar environment. A motion to disband a recently formed subcommittee was proposed but did not move forward, as the board agreed the committee should remain available to address future policy questions. Before closing, Chair Jim Murphy thanked the board for their service, acknowledging it as a "generous thing to do." A motion to adjourn passed 11-0.