Trumbull's Senior Citizen Commission Starting Over

Trumbull's Senior Citizen Commission is happy it's a new year after dealing with numerous internal issues.

With a new chairwoman at the helm, the commission, which deals with senior issues and the town Senior Center, is reviewing its finances and trying to correct past issues. Rachel Yahwak is the new chairperson.

First Selectman Tim Herbst raised several problems, including patrons using Senior Center doors that are not considered entrances and disarming the alarm system. After the first offense, anyone caught doing so will be charged with vandalism, town officials said.

Regarding finances, Town Treasurer John Ponzio said all monies generated from senior center activities must be properly accounted for. A subcommittee was formed to bring back recommendations to the full commission. Ponzio added he was talking to all boards and commissions about proper accounting procedures.

"Without proper controls, there is a chance of misappropriation of funds," he said. He added that he also addressed other boards regarding the matter, including the Golf and Library commissions.

"Funds have to be completely accounted for," Ponzio said.

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Finally, Senior Center continues its efforts to use a state grant for getting its snack bar kitchen up to code and training staff to use it.

The snack bar offers low cost food and a place for seniors to mingle. It is a popular venue, a "hub of socialization," whose absence hurts senior center attendance, said Senior Center Director Jean Fereira.

According to Fereira, a senior center membership survey indicates there are 616 members, of which 172 are registered as non-residents and 439 as town residents.

Another subcommittee was formed to deal with the snack bar.

"We still have a long road ahead of us," Fereira said.