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TO: Mayor Richard C. Irvin
FROM: Alex Voigt, Deputy Chief of Staff
DATE: February 20, 2024
SUBJECT:
Establishing the Aging in Community Advisory Board Under Chapter 2, Article VI of the Code of Ordinances.
PURPOSE:
To create a board comprised of a diverse, knowledgeable group of aging community members serving in an advisory capacity to the city council concerning the needs of the aging community in Aurora.
BACKGROUND:
The creation of the Aging in Community Advisory Board is a recommendation from the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus' "Aging in a Changing Region" program. The City of Aurora participated in this program, represented by Katrina Boatright, the city's Manager, Senior and Disability Services. The program resulted in the "Elevating Aging-in-Community in Aurora" strategic guide, which will be presented to the City Council in April.
In addition to the participation in this program, Katrina also hosted several listening sessions designed to garner feedback directly from older community members. This board will be an extension of those sessions as well.
The format, mission and goals of this board align with other current city boards, commissions and councils.
DISCUSSION:
This nine-member advisory board will be tasked with the following:
• Solicit input and act as a public forum for issues that affect persons ages 62 and above in the City by hosting public meetings, obtaining factual data and provide this information to the City Council with recommendations.
• Identify and work with and support existing senior programs and provide a seamless network of services that meets the needs of persons ages 62 and over in the City of Aurora.
• Assist with the creation of services for seniors, programs, and events available for Aurora residents ages 62 and above.
• Assist with volunteer recruitment for programs and services for persons ages 62 and above.
• Provide insight into the Aging-in-Community and Age-Friendly initiatives for the City of Aurora.
This commission will fill a gap in the city’s current host of community-based boards. The goal will be for this board to work in concert with the other community-based groups.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff respectfully creates support and adoption of this ordinance.
cc: Rules, Administration and Procedures Committee
CITY OF AURORA, ILLINOIS
ORDINANCE NO. _________
DATE OF PASSAGE ________________
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An Ordinance Establishing the Aging-in-Community Advisory Board Under Chapter 2, Article VI of the Code of Ordinances.
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WHEREAS, the City of Aurora has a population of more than 25,000 persons and is, therefore, a home rule unit under subsection (a) of Section 6 of Article VII of the Illinois Constitution of 1970; and
WHEREAS, subject to said Section, a home rule unit may exercise any power and perform any function pertaining to its government and affairs for the protection of the public health, safety, morals, and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the creation of the Aging-in-Community Advisory Board will create an avenue for the city to better address the needs of the aging community; and
WHEREAS, creation of this board will continue to enhance the city’s efforts towards being a prime location to retire and reside.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Aurora, Illinois, as follows: that Section 2-469 of Chapter 2, Article VI the City Code of Ordinances shall be adopted as set forth in Exhibit A, hereby creating the Aging-in-Community Advisory Board.