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PRESENTATION BY REPRESENTATIVES OF THE SENIORS ADVISORY COMMITTEE REGARDING THE COMMITTEE'S FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Ms. Gwen Kavanagh, Chair of the Seniors Advisory Committee and Mr. Ross Cotton provided a presentation regarding the Seniors Advisory Committee's work, findings and recommendations. Ms. Kavanagh highlighted the discussions and the work of the committee over the course of their term from March to November, 2014 including the creation of sub-committees related to Communications, Civic Participation, Housing and Transportation, presentations to the Committee by City staff on various initiatives and services and the completion of a needs assessment survey.
Ms. Kavanagh discussed the findings of the Committee, including the forecasted increase in aging population by 2031 and associated rationale. She discussed communication barriers and suggestions for improvement, the lack of available housing for seniors and issues around the affordability of maintaining a property. Ms. Kavanagh also commented on recommendations regarding transportation and transit.
In closing, Ms. Kavanagh advised that the Committee is recommending that its work continue in order to increase awareness of senior's priorities and participation within the community.
Members of Council asked questions of Ms. Kavanagh and Mr. Cotton and received responses.