Council on Aging Meeting Minutes 12/9/19
Monterey Council on Aging
Minutes of December 9, 2019 Meeting
The meeting opened at 10:05 a m. Present were Kyle Pierce,chair, Ruth Champigny, Norma Champigny, Joann Bell and Kay Purcell. Roz Halberstader and Ilene Marcus were absent. Ilene Marcus was away but was willing to take part in today’s meeting by phone. K.Pierce reviewed remote participation. It was more involved than expected and the consensus was to do this in the future but not today.
Minutes of November 18, 1029 were read, reviewed and approved. Relevant items of the report -- No one was available to attend the SBETC meeting of Wednesday, November 27th. The guest speaker at the Regional Councils on Aging on January 13th will be Vicky Linscott S.W. of Berkshire Elder Services.
It was announced that Patricia Edelstein died recently . Visitation will be at Finnerty & Stevens.
Several reported that it is difficult to hear messages on our town phone line, 528-1443, x 247.
MCOA There is a request from David Stevens, executive director of the state-wide organization that members support a state bill, House 1348, which would extend the Good Samaritan Law to include volunteer drivers. This would benefit seniors without transportation who rely on others. Members agreed to support this bill and Kyle will write a letter. Others may also write giving their personal support.
Transportation discussion – all present felt there is a need for more options. There is less SBETC use lately, people are isolated, don’t drive at night. Attendance at pot luck and movies could be increased. Kyle will raise this issue at the next pot luck. Kay will w-mail the list re the movies. The question: “Would your friends and neighbors attend if a ride was available?”
There has been no movement on the SIGrant for an outreach worker.
Our next meeting is on Monday, January 13, 2020 at 9 am at our community center followed at 10 am by a joint meeting with South County councils.