Council on Aging reviews accounts, hears update on formula grant and town technology funds

The Town of Hubbardston Council on Aging accepted its treasurer’s report and discussed the status of a federal/state “formula” grant that funds part of the center’s operations.

At the meeting, Ken (treasurer) reported account balances as of Oct. 15, listing the supplies account at $2,844.48, the services account at $1,448.51, the gift account at $6,781.81, the formula-grant account at $4,469.51 and the art-grant account at $1,543.93. “Supplies account, we have $2,844.48,” Ken said while reading the balances.

The council voted to accept the treasurer’s report. The motion was seconded and members approved the report by voice vote.

Members also discussed timing and size of the remaining formula-grant payment for the current fiscal period. Claudia Provencal, director, and other members said they expect the formula grant to be distributed in two halves and that the town’s share for each half was “around $9,000,” though speakers described that figure as approximate and said they would confirm the exact amount. Claudia said she would contact Adam Frank (town contact) to confirm when the payment will be released.

Council members noted the formula grant funds day-to-day staffing and programming at the center and urged careful bookkeeping while waiting for the next disbursement. Mel Shaughnessy, secretary, told the group the council needs to reconcile its accounts with the town’s records when discrepancies arise.

Council members also said the town has offered $5,000 from maintenance funds to support technology needs at the senior center. That $5,000 was described by Claudia as intended for phones, computers or other technology the center needs; she said any renovation spending likely requires town approval.

Members urged continued coordination with town IT staff and the town’s technology lead, and said they will track incoming grant and donation receipts closely.