Hi Jill:
Here are my thoughts on the proposed HCVAC and CoA commission consolidation. Thanks.
Good Evening:
I am writing to you to express my concern with the proposed consolidation of the Healthy Chula Vista Advisory Council ( HCVAC) and the Chula Vista Commission on Aging ( CoA).
I am asking that you do not approve this proposed consolidation. Please consider that:
The Senior population is among the fastest growing demographics – no one can stop the aging process. Each one of us - baby boomers, Gen X, and millennials - if we are not already there will hopefully reach that summit.
Chula Vista is constantly recognized for progressive community development resulting from the leadership this City Council has provided. The vision to appoint a Commission on Aging demonstrated the commitment to this invaluable demographic niche many years ago and it has only become more important.
The emphasis throughout the state, county and municipal government levels is to expand the commissions dedicated to seniors rather than reduce them. These commissions are an integral and active part of their communities generating feedback, identifying concerns and providing resolutions and providing educational and recreational activities and assistance.
If one on the concerns fueling this proposed consolidation if the ability to convene commission meetings it should be noted that one of the first things the CoA accomplished was reconfirming the meeting commitment of each Commissioner and their acceptance of their commission responsibilities.
We are no longer constrained by COVID which severely limited our ability to meet. The current CoA has redefined the goals and objectives and begun implementing an aggressive plan for introducing programs and activities for all Chula Vista Seniors. Due to the expanded agenda of action items the CoA has meet monthly and is planning on continuing this schedule to accomplish our determined planning efforts.
If one of the consolidation goals is to reduce the number of commission positions consider:
The HCVAC has nine commission positions consisting of five Expert Representatives and four Commission positions assigned one per voting District. Of these, two positions are vacant and two position terms expired in June ( 2022).
The CoA has seven commission positions of which two are vacant ( the most recent vacancy resulting from the hiring of Emily Tran into an interim position in Chula Vista).
Consider not filling any vacancies. If additional positions need to be reduced, fill the new commission positions on a seniority basis. Any Commissioner positions exceeding the designated number could be offered a vacancy of a different city board or assigned priority” replacement for future new commission openings.
Item8.1 - Received10/12/22
Aufmuth
The HCVAC has made significant contributions to Chula Vista. It is charged with the broad brush approach to improving the overall health and improvement of all Chula Vista citizens through securing state wide support and grants. We should continue to build on those successes. The CoA on the other hand specifically addresses senior and aging issues on a local level working with individual organizations and associations. Each group has a distinct set of goals and objectives.
You can all appreciate the importance of public perception in ensuring the success of any program. Seniors associate with, and take pride in, the “ aging” tag line and associated programs.
Now is not the time to consolidate the Healthy Chula Vista Advisory Commission and the Chula Vista Commission on Aging.
Consideration should be given to promoting both commissions to work on senior issues independently. Consolidation may hinder the recently rekindled momentum and positive attention the “ Senior specific” programs and activities.
If the commissions are consolidated please consider:
Establishing a commission with enough representation to continue the current activities;
Evaluate the need for “ Expert Representatives – can these resources be utilized on an as “as needed” basis;
Filling the “ new commission” positions on a seniority basis from the existing commissioner positions.
Establishing an agenda format that addresses separate
sections for HCVAC and AoC issues and activities.
Thank you for considering this information.
Tim Aufmuth
Item8.1 - Received10/12/22
Aufmuth