As election approaches, Morristown mayor promises more activities for seniors

By Marion Filler

Morristown public housing residents are hoping it’s not politics as usual.

Mayor Tim Dougherty, running unopposed for a fourth term on Nov. 2, 2021, paid a visit Monday to seniors at 31 Early St.

“I’m hoping for some good news,” said Andora Hale, a resident for 17 years who was bused over from the Ann Street seniors building. “I ask every year. There’re no activities for seniors in the whole town, there’s nothing. And for seniors, to keep fighting dementia and everything, we need activities.”

“We have some ideas, it’s the reason I’m here,” said the mayor, as he introduced Shanae Green. She has worked in the mayor’s office for 20 years doing senior services, arranging events and activities, and writing a newsletter, she said.

Green will be tasked with programming events for the Morristown Housing Authority, according to Dougherty.

“She’s got great ideas, energy, and she’s looking for your ideas for what she can bring to you,” the mayor said.

The housing authority, which operates under federal jurisdiction, is poised for tens of millions of dollars in renovations via a complex and controversial public/private partnership called RAD, short for Rental Assistance Demonstration.

Dougherty told seniors their environment will be “totally transformed,” adding that “if they’re going to spend millions of dollars, and I’m talking millions, millions, on upgrading our senior housing, then we’re going to start working really hard on your programming. I want to hear your ideas because this is who will help coordinate.”

One resident asked about booster shots and was told Atlantic Health will come to administer them. Another requested a social worker to help with Medicare and Medicaid, and was advised that monthly talks by specialists are planned.

“We’re going to set up a volunteer program to come in and help with your daily activities,” said Green. “We want to partner with the Neighborhood House, with the pre-schoolers, so we can bridge the gap between the different age groups.”

She described a computer training program that includes instruction and transportation. She also mentioned trips to Broadway plays, and concerts at local schools and colleges.

Heads nodded in agreement, but some residents seemed as if they had heard this before.

“Our brains are deteriorating and we have to have activities,” interrupted Hale. “Every other area has been doing this for years, but we have nothing.”

Green promised more trips when things open up. “All the things we talked about — I’m working on it,” she said.

Keith Kinard, executive eirector of the housing authority, was enthusiastic about the renovations. They should begin early next year on the interior and exterior of the Early- and Ann street residences.

“Between these three buildings, we’re talking about over $35 million worth of construction. None of this will look the same, even the outside,” Kinard said.

He also addressed the need for social interaction, obviously important to the seniors.

“We want to make sure that you have a schedule of activities,” said Kinard. “When you get to that sweet spot you’re going to see a calendar of activities — not just bingo, crochet class, not just the walking club.

“We are very, very, very close,” continued Kinard. “Working with the Mayor’s Office and Shanae Green is something we’ve dreamed about in terms of these activities; 2022 will really make up for 2020.”