The Harwich Council on Aging (COA) Board of Directors has established a new tiered donation structure for its volunteer medical transportation program, while formally expanding service boundaries to include Sandwich. Under the revised policy, the board set suggested donation rates based on travel distance: $5 for trips within Harwich; $10 for Chatham, Brewster, and Dennis; $15 for Barnstable and Eastham; and a $20 cap for destinations beyond those towns. Director Julie Wescott noted that the program relies on volunteers to provide critical access to care, stating, I'd like to formally extend our coverage to Sandwich.

The board engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the phrasing of these donations to ensure no resident feels stigmatized by their financial situation. Members moved away from language involving "hardship" in favor of more inviting terminology. Angie Chilaka suggested, I'd rather see something like 'encouraged' rather than 'requested.' I think the friends are willing to pick up the cost if someone's not able to pay. Board member Jen agreed, adding, I just want to soften it. How about 'encouraged but not required'? Chairman Richard Wickstead emphasized the need for flexibility, noting that for those on a fixed social security income, even small donations may be something they just don't have. The board eventually settled on language stating that riders are encouraged to provide donations directly to drivers to defray fuel costs, though fees may be waived. Motion Made by R. Wickstead to approve the transportation policy as amended, including the expansion to Sandwich, the wording 'Riders are encouraged to provide cash donations (may be waived) directly to the drivers,' and the tiered donation rates of $5 for Harwich, $10 for Chatham/Brewster/Dennis, $15 for Barnstable/Eastham, and $20 beyond. Motion Passed (Unanimous Voice Vote).

The policy update comes as the COA prepares to present the results of a comprehensive UMass Boston needs assessment to the Select Board on Tuesday, September 2. This study, which previously identified a 38% information gap among local seniors, will also be the subject of a casual public forum later in September. Board members expressed a desire to keep the public presentation accessible. Sheila House noted, People need to feel comfortable and that they can relate to what's really going on as opposed to data, bang, bang, bang. Wickstead suggested a 4:00 PM start time for the forum to accommodate seniors who prefer not to drive at night while still remaining accessible to working advocates. We'll MC it ourselves so that we know what our seniors are going to be looking for, Wickstead said.

The board also welcomed former Town Clerk Anita Ducet in her new role as Select Board Liaison. Ducet offered her support to the department, stating, I'm here for you if you need anything. This introduction coincided with a broader discussion regarding the ongoing search for a permanent Town Administrator. As the Charter Commission weighs a Strong Town Administrator model to streamline town operations, COA board members highlighted the need for a leader who is visible and communicative. Chilaka advocated for someone who actually knows his or her job, but the other thing is the ability to work with a wide diversity of people. Jen added that the new administrator should be more visual at more sites than just town hall... being in this building more.

In other business, Wescott reported that the COA will host a "My Little Black Book" resources program for veterans on September 24 at 9:00 AM. Additionally, a volunteer appreciation brunch is scheduled for October 17. Wickstead underscored the financial impact of these residents, noting that volunteers are the equivalent of two to two and a half full-time employees that we would need to have to produce the programs and services that we have. Looking ahead to the winter, House noted that Behavioral Health Innovators will provide mental health and substance use presentations at the COA's men’s and women’s breakfasts in January.