Mattapoisett Council on Aging — October 7, 2026

The Mattapoisett Council on Aging met on October 7 to review operational updates, department finances, outreach efforts, and upcoming programming. Director Sarah Landry presented the budget recap, reporting that the formula grant allocated $39,584 with a $16,804.28 rollover, yielding $56,388.28 in total available funds. While overall spending remained on track, the vehicle maintenance line experienced an overage due to significant air conditioning repairs totaling approximately $5,000 for the 2022 van, funded from a special town account. The board approved the minutes and both the town budget and formula grant recap.

During program reports, Landry highlighted steady participation increases, with 509 attendees in September and 12 day trips conducted since July. The medical and shopping ride program delivered 393 rides, though shopping trips were adjusted back to weekly Tuesday service to Market Basket based on patron feedback. Outreach Coordinator Elizabeth Latham reported heightened anxiety among local seniors regarding rising living expenses, delayed heating assistance through PACE, and uncertain funding from the Curtis grant. She noted that the Friends of the COA provided grocery gift cards to alleviate immediate needs. Discussions also addressed potential dry food pantry options in collaboration with Town Nurse Allison and ramp installations completed by Habitat for Humanity.

Under new business, the board discussed the transition of the monthly newsletter to Canva to comply with ADA accessibility standards. To secure an additional four newsletter pages from printer LPI, the council must generate $3,000 in local advertising sponsorships. Landry announced upcoming initiatives including a digital equity tech cafe, dementia counselor training with the Alzheimer's Association, self-defense classes, and the ongoing monthly Veterans Breakfast. The meeting concluded with an extensive discussion on establishing a punctuality policy for high-demand classes and balancing resident versus non-resident fee structures for ticketed meals and events.

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