Community Concern

gives presentation in Collins  

by Richard Westlund

     Jerry Bartone, executive director, and Jennifer Anselmo, program coordinator, addressed the Collins Town Council with information on the activities of their organization, Community Concern of Western New York. It is a not-for-profit social service agency whose services are to improve the quality of life for those in social or emotional distress. They cover the gamut from senior care management to a first-offender program that offers treatment and education to first-time juvenile offenders, giving them a chance to clear a criminal record. They are funded by Erie County and towns within the county including Collins. Collins residents may avail themselves of the services at no cost.

     A report of their activities for the year 2005 in the town of Collins includes: 18 visits, totaling 38.5 hours, to three clients, giving companion services; 33 visits, for 33.75 hours to one client on volunteer services; 288 hours to 44 clients regarding case management; 18 hours to 27 clients on information and referral; 174 sessions for 24 clients covering behavioral health treatment; 1,970 meals on wheels; and 104 hours to home health care. They are planning a presentation for Collins residents at the L.K. Painter Center in the near future.

     Highway Superintendent Joe Gernatt reported that the Quaker Street bridge is now open. He also reported that someone has been putting bags of dog doo-doo in garbage bags deposited at the transfer station. This is forbidden. Dog doo is not acceptable garbage!

     In other matters, the town council:

   •  Approved the amended agreement with William Schutt and Associates concerning the installation of an iron treatment facility for the Collins Center Water District.

   •  Agreed to place ads for bids for Collins Center playground equipment, bids to be opened March 3 at 3 p.m.

   •  Filed a request for a 60-day extension to file the 2005 annual financial report update document with the state.

   •  Awarded a bid for $1,400 to make repairs to a sagging ceiling and walls in the L.K. Painter Center to Walter S. Hartloff & Son.

     The next regular meeting of the Collins Town Council will be Monday, March 6 at 7 p.m. in the Collins Town Hall.