LYNN — The mayor’s office is in the process of appointing new Council on Aging board members to fill up to three different positions early next year.
Those interested in joining the commission, which meets monthly, are encouraged to apply by scanning the QR code on the back of the city’s flyer, which can be found at City Hall or online at the City of Lynn’s website under the “Boards and Commissions” tab. Outreach Director for Mayor Jared Nicholson’s office Jean-Michael Fana said that the ideal candidates will be individuals who are engaged with the community, and have experience with social services and recreational activities for seniors.
“We’re looking for people who kind of already have connections in our community here in our senior community— people who are knowledgeable or have experience in social services, or recreational activities, you know, things that our seniors are going to want or are looking to get,” Fana said. “Also [we’re looking for] people who have good relationships throughout the community. Because our senior community is so large, the next commissioner has to have this ability to reach out and communicate with people and get a sense of what’s going on across the city.”
Those interested in the volunteer position will have until Dec. 16 to apply. While the board oversees all forms of senior service throughout the city, Fana said that in recent years, operation of senior center services and programs remains a top priority.
“It’s still a big topic,” Fana said. “We had a senior center prior, and we lost it due to unfortunate circumstances, so the Council on Aging really took a leadership role, pushing for the city to get to our new Senior Center. Now that we have one, you know, they’re still listening for ideas on what kind of things, you know, the city should be doing in terms of programming, what other resources we need. Do we need transportation? That’s been a big discussion as well.”
Citywide safety infrastructure for seniors, Fana said, remains another important issue for the commission.
“Safety for seniors, you know, crosswalks, lighting, that’s very important for seniors. When it takes you a little bit longer to cross the street, it is important for you that the light is working, and all that kind of thing,” he said.
After Dec. 16, Mayor Jared Nicholson will select and appoint the best-fit applicants for the position. Early next year, the City Council will vote to confirm or deny Nicholson’s appointments.
“The Council on Aging plays a significant role in our community, particularly with providing essential services and engaging with our seniors across the City,” Nicholson said. “We’re thankful to the members of the board for their dedication to our senior residents and for their focus on community service.”
Anthony Cammalleri can be reached at [email protected]