Commission on Aging Well Meeting - February 12, 2026

The meeting began with approval of the minutes from the previous meeting. The main agenda included presentations on senior center programs and growth, nutrition and volunteer updates, and discussions on volunteer policy and fee structures for wellness services.

Consent Calendar

• The minutes were approved unanimously with no changes.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public appearances for non-agenda items, but David Hill (Assistant Director) and Mandy (Nutrition and Volunteer Coordinator) presented on agenda items, providing updates on programs and operations.

Discussion Items

• Senior Center Program Growth (David Hill): David reported significant growth in the e-newsletter subscription list from 929 at the start of 2023 to 1,895 at the time of the meeting, representing over 100% growth. Hard copy newsletters are also distributed (1,200 copies monthly). The center averages 50 programs per week with approximately 225 participants per day (over 1,000 per week). New features include online registration, active links, and video program descriptions. Partnerships with Fitchburg Fact TV and Facebook expand reach. David also highlighted the lunch program as a key entry point for diverse populations, supported by case management and outreach.
• Nutrition and Volunteer Program Updates (Mandy): Mandy reported serving 433 different meal clients in the last year, with a decrease of about 1,500 meals compared to the prior year due to changes in managed care organization (MCO) funding as of January 1, 2026. Five clients were removed from meal service. Data entry demands are high; new staff (Chris and Karen) have been critical. Volunteer hours in 2024 were over 17,000, but a change in tracking (excluding knitting, quilting, choir) reduced reported hours to 10,747 for the most recent year. Mandy has received enough volunteers without active recruitment for five months. A new volunteer handbook is being developed. A partnership with UW social work class (three student volunteers) was successful.
• Mandated Community Service Volunteer Policy: Mandy reported receiving about 10 applications from individuals with mandated community service hours. She developed a policy statement stating that the senior center recruits volunteers who are intrinsically motivated, not fulfilling a mandate. Discussion ensued about whether this policy judges individuals needing second chances. The commission decided to revise the statement (removing the last five lines) and bring it back next month, and optionally ask other senior centers about their policies.
• Rental and Independent Contractor Fees (Jill): Jill presented on fee structures for independent contractors and wellness providers. Currently, instructors offering classes are on an 80-20 split (center takes 20%). Wellness providers (foot care, massage, acupuncture) have varying arrangements (some pay 10%, some nothing). Jill surveyed other senior centers: most charge nothing or less (Colonial Club 10%, Stoughton 10%, Verona 10%, Northwest Dane $5 per person for foot care, Wanaki $25/month flat fee for acupuncture). Discussion leaned toward a flat fee for the wellness room (perhaps $25 per session) rather than a percentage, to simplify and ensure consistency. No decision was made; Jill will analyze numbers and bring a proposal.

Key Outcomes

• The minutes were approved.
• The commission asked Jill and her team to revise the mandated volunteer policy statement (remove the last five lines) and bring it back for the March 12 meeting. Additionally, they will inquire with other senior centers about their practices.
• Jill will further analyze fee structures for wellness services (considering flat fees for the wellness room) and present a proposal at a future meeting.
• The pancake breakfast is scheduled for Sunday, April 19, 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
• The travel show will be held April 7, 2026.
• The next Commission on Aging Well meeting is March 12, 2026, with a working meeting to follow.
• Members are to continue collecting prize donations for celebrity bingo (April 30).
• Outreach to Limerick apartments planned for April 16.
• Urban line dancing program (six weeks, Saturdays 10-11 a.m.) starts end of March, with early bird pricing.
• AARP tax help available Fridays through tax season.
• Transportation engineer Ross invited to March meeting to discuss bus route changes.