CC_Minutes_2012_0626_School Bd - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

Joint School Board No. 623/City Council Work Session Monday,June 26,2012 Page 10 Council, this discussion could be put aside until fall depending on the results of discussions at that level. School Board Member Edstrom concurred with Councilmember Pust; noting a comprehensive needs assessment completed several years ago as part of a grant application in conjunction with other agencies to the state for community funds to develop a senior program. While the grant was unsuccessful, Ms. Edstrom noted that it provided really concise demographic data and identified needs and current opportunities. Ms. Edstrom advised that it resurrected the idea of a community for a lifetime concept, striving toward a goal of sustainability, walkability, and livability from the cradle to the grave. Councilmember Pust noted that the City of Roseville was the only City providing support to the North Suburban Senior Council's shuttle bug transportation service at this time. Mayor Roe concurred, noting that the North Suburban Senior Council (NSSC) survey may identify gaps; however, he suggested that since that survey is in process, with results pending, this discussion may be premature. Chair Gogins concurred, noting that the next step would be to have the NSSC make a presenta- tion to the City and School Board on gaps and opportunities. Chair Gogins expressed the Dis- trict's interest in working as a partner with the NSSC in determining community needs and re- sources. Dr. Thein expressed concern from the District's perspective of the need for senior program- ming, with only Roseville, Saint Paul, and Falcon Heights currently have strong advocates for the senior population. Dr. Thein opined that he was interested in getting everyone involved and to broaden that senior advocacy and involvement among other communities and draw in additional members (e.g. including the communities of Little Canada, Maplewood, Shoreview and other cities in the District). Dr. Thein noted the extensive changes over the last twenty (20) years in the needs of seniors and the entirely different world now and into the future, with a more active senior population. Dr. Thein noted that one of the areas this was most evidenced was in congregate dining, with that having almost disappeared; and home delivered meals only being sought from those ages 85 or older. Dr. Thein expressed his personal interest in receiv- ing feedback on the gaps and opportunities available. Councilmember Pust opined that the NSSC was going out to those other cities, and would help educate them. On behalf of the NSSC, Councilmember Pust expressed interest in partnering with the District and Cities; and offered to relay that message. Councilmember Pust also rec- ognized the considerable programming for seniors done through the Parks and Recreation De- partment. Mayor Roe noted that there were definitely things needed in planning for seniors, especially as the City's demographics continue to change; with younger families as well as more of a senior population.