Mendon Senior and Community Center still vital

Despite a narrow defeat in last May’s vote, the proposed Mendon Senior and Community Center still remains an essential resource in our Town. The proposal to secure funding for the center fell short by a slim margin, yet the need for this facility has not diminished!

Our center serves as a vital hub for Mendon’s seniors and broader community, providing a wide range of services, including social programs, health and wellness activities, and spaces for community gatherings. Many residents, especially older adults, depend on these services to maintain their health, social connections, and independence.

Our Town’s growing senior population and the needs of the community underscore the importance of an adequate space to provide these services. The center currently struggles to keep up with demand, and some critical services may be at risk of scaling back or being discontinued altogether.

Various Town groups compete for valuable space to hold meetings or have events. The proposed Center will provide space to assist these groups with viable alternatives.

Recognizing the importance of this project, the Mendon Select Board has agreed that this project remains a key priority for the community. They have tasked the MSCC Building Committee with renewing its efforts by exploring ways to reduce costs while still achieving the project’s essential goals. A revised proposal will be brought to voters on two key dates: during the National Election on Nov. 5 and at the Special Town Meeting on Nov. 18.

To keep the community informed, informational meetings have been held at the Town Hall in September and will continue into October, giving residents the opportunity to learn more about the updated plans and provide feedback. Additionally, all residents are encouraged to attend the Building Committee meetings, which are posted on the Town’s website, to stay involved in the planning process. Please join us Oct. 28 at 6:30 p.m.

As Mendon moves forward, this new Senior and Community Center remains a critical part of its future and a key priority, offering valuable and much needed space for people of all ages to connect, learn, and stay active. Although the previous ballot vote outcome was not what was hoped, we do understand and respect the various reasons why. The proposed facility provides equal support for both the Seniors and the Community. Please consider this project on Nov. 5 and Nov. 18 when you cast your vote. 

Submitted by Mendon Senior and Community Center Building Committee