Date: 11/6/2019
Dear Wilbraham Residents,
At the Oct. 28 Selectmen’s meeting, a major step forward was initiated by the board regarding the long-awaited proposed new Senior Center in Wilbraham. A public forum will be held on Nov. 13, 6 p.m. to discuss the Feasibility Committee’s unanimous decision to build a new facility on town–owned property behind the Town Offices on Springfield Street. At press time, a location for this Public Forum has not been confirmed, but their first choice was at one of our schools and, subsequently, the current senior center.
Seven years ago, a Needs Committee was established by the select board. Their conclusion was unanimous; “there is a definite need for a larger facility for Wilbraham seniors”.
I encourage you to read both reports that are posted on the town’s website. They highlight the shortcomings of the current location, which is leased by the town. The cost is $72,960 for a token 3,840 sq. ft. Of this 3,840 sq. ft., about half is for bathrooms, three tiny offices and a reception area. The rest is for meal on wheels, fitness, health and spa programs, seminars and meetings.
Per the Town Clerk’s office on Oct. 23 there were 4,267 seniors in town (60 and over). This represented about 36 percent of our adult population. Pre-seniors (50-59) represented an additional 2,291 or 19 percent. We are an aging community with current adults (50 and over) making up 55 percent of this population! This is significant and our town needs to take action now to address this growing trend to meet the active, fun and healthy lifestyles of our seniors.
In addition, a new center will strengthen the physical foundation, and well–being of Wilbraham. Over recent years the quality of life in our town has improved with the building of new [Minnechaug Regional High School], extensive school renovations, expanded sewer system, expanded recreational facilities, new DPW building, new police station, upgrades to the fire station, renovated library, and green community initiatives. This is one more concrete pillar in the town’s foundation that we can all be proud of.
Among other things, it’s expected that the select board will discuss the framework to establish a Building Committee to move this project forward.
We’ve waited too many years for this moment. Nov. 13 is your opportunity to express your support for seniors. Let’s not wait another 7 years! Thank you.
Update: The public forum will be at the Minnechaug Regional High School auditorium.
Matt Villamaino
President, Friends of Wilbraham Seniors, Inc.
