Halifax voters will have the opportunity to support their senior citizens Monday, May 8, at the Annual Town Meeting beginning at 7:30 p.m.
Article 21 asks the town to vote to appropriate, borrow, or transfer from available funds the sum of $2 million to renovate, repair, and expand the current Pope’s Tavern Senior Center.
When John Campbell, Chairman of the Municipal and School Building Committee, brought the plans before selectmen several weeks ago, the reaction was unanimously positive. Selectmen Chairman Troy Garron told his board they were the best solution to the Council on Aging’s needs he had seen thus far. Selectmen Tom Millias and Kim Roy agreed.
The new plans would make the Senior Center completely handicap accessible throughout, bring the building up to code and in compliance with the state and federal laws. The plans would renovate the existing building, add a large function room that can hold more than 70 people, and double the size of the current kitchen.
A large room on the second floor can be used for various activities and/or functions by other town groups, while the basement may be used for additional activities or storage.
An elevator will access all floors in the building.
The visiting podiatrist currently sees patients in the bathroom on the first floor; the new plans provide for a private exam room on the second floor where patients can be seen.
Halifax Council on Aging director Barbara Brenton said they have waited 22 years for a solution to the need for space, “It’s been a long time waiting and a lot of people have lost heart.” Brenton said that they are hoping that this time, with Selectmen’s and Finance Committee support, the plan will be approved at Town Meeting.
Halifax has a population of about 7,600 in all, and of those, 1,561 are over the age of 60. That’s more than 20%. As the years go by, the population is getting older and in need of the services the Halifax COA provides. “We’re asking the town for their support,” Brenton said it’s the seniors that have been waiting, supporting the schools and other projects. It’s time for the town to support them.”
The Annual Town Meeting is held in the multipurpose room of the Halifax Elementary School, Plymouth St., Halifax.
Warrant articles may not be presented in the order of the warrant; they may be chosen by lottery as to which will be voted on.
Anyone needing a ride to the Annual Town Meeting is asked to call the Council on Aging, 781-293—7313, and they will arrange for transportation.