Commissioners, don't play games with seniors

We should find it no surprise that immediately following a meeting regarding the new building for senior activities and services, that Flathead County commissioners began cutting the plans.  

In the past, on other issues, they have never acted that quickly, which leads us to believe that information was withheld during the meeting. Did thay just get up the next morning, and the idea hit all three at once? It has been recognized in the past that the commissioners have had little (knowledge, then) interest in senior services and accommodations.

I missed hearing any of them say in their campaign rhetoric, that they are “well aware of the shameful, and startling statistic that Montana rates sixth in the nation (per the Inter Lake) for elder suicides, and that if they are elected, they plan to change that.” Maybe I just missed it.

For a quick start, they whittle the plans for a gathering room where seniors might go to meet, play games, eat, and visit. Do you know what it means to an elderly person, or persons, living alone to spend time just getting out, visiting, and sharing a meal with others? Visiting with others can help stabilize their blood pressure, help them sleep better, and bring less despair, anxiety, and heart stress. Your food tastes better when you are sharing meals with others.   

Dark days, like we experience, can be bleak. Going to the center would give them something to look forward to, feel good about themselves, a reason to live. Ask some of them. Some would walk to the building, which would be another health plus.

Then, the commissioners think there is no sense in having a dance area... No, there is no purpose in their way of thinking, when you can get duded up in your gear for hunting, fishing, skiing, strong man contests, dragonboats, and many more activities. Must those who can no longer do those things be penalized? 

Mitchell telling seniors, “I am giving you”... Did he say “I”? At that time, he had been serving less than a month on the board, and it is “I”? This is not about “I.” This is about “we” — we the people of Flathead County who he is supposed to be representing. Do “we” agree with him, or must we accept his “no debating” philosophy, just assuming that he knows best? How arrogant. How demeaning to seniors. Must the seniors kneel down and give thanks for the few kernels thrown to them, by “I”?

Throughout the country, it is well known that senior population is growing rapidly, and will reach crisis proportions by 2020. Others are planning ahead. This building is a step in that direction, and would possibly be one of the most used facilities in town.

It is cause for serious concern when three people who have put themselves in this governing position (without qualifications or requirements only than to live here) can make such crucial decisions as tinkering with footings, foundation cuts, and more. Particular footings and foundations are designed and unique for each individual building. Between the developer, project manager, and the commissioners with pencil, paper, and a “nod,” these are possible drastic and unsafe decisions being made. 

What condition will this building be in, in 40-50 years? Heavy weight/snows on roof, or foundation problems may occur. Of course, the developer and project manager may be basking in the sunshine in California by then. The nodders will not be “going outside much either” by then — they will no longer be here. Such wear and deterioration will not be simply repairable, and the building could be condemned.

Dancing for the elderly comes naturally. There was little to do when they grew up, and dancing didn’t cost anything. People would get together, each bring a record (no CDs) and they would roll back the rugs at home and dance. 

Like today, there might have been a tavern on every corner, but in their days money was scarce from Depression years, so what money they had went on the table. Strange fact also, if you didn’t work, you had no money. There wasn’t a government check in the mail every week, so you actually looked for work, or left town and found it somewhere else. 

Basing how much time seniors spend outside, compared to those in a rest home, is a weak point. Usually they aren’t able to go to the Senior Center. The main reason seniors don’t spend more time outside is the weather. Pure and simple. Snow, slush, ice, rain, and wind aren’t conditions that make it enjoyable, nor safe.

Fundraising, for seniors to pay for the cuts Mitchell suggests, if it comes to that, should be shared. Parks, hunting areas, hiking and boating and fishing areas must also be maintained, and upkeep is costly. Possibly, it could be mandatory that as you enter any of those areas for recreation, those who partake of their amenities would bring pies, cupcakes, or cookies to sell. Maybe some used clothing you have outgrown during the good life. Just as soon as they sell, you could continue on with your day, hunting or whatever. 

How much does it cost to maintain your “playground” lands and waters? Who pays for it? We all do. Does it cost as much as a one-time cost of a dance floor? Ask the numbers people, and you will learn that the amount of these building cuts are mere pebbles in the sand, and pale in comparison.  

Continuously throughout the year, Flathead County splashes the next outdoor activity in the news. We mustn’t have any down time from our recreation. Many of the elderly who might enjoy the activities at a new center have helped paved the way for the recreation that is available and enjoyed by others today.

As for dollars to fund a building, no politician is interested in, nor brave enough, introducing bills that might bring in tax revenue from our $3 billion poured into the state by tourists. Politicians must worry about votes, not suicide rates. Tax revenue could help in many ways.

The one who is supporting putting tax money back into voter pockets is not thinking clearly. The (small amount) money taxpayers can keep by his plan, isn’t sitting in the bank, waiting to send to the Treasury, and then keep. They probably didn’t have it anyway. It is already owed on a credit card. If taxes are eased, and money frees up, will they pay down their card balance? The idea may bring in a few votes at election time.

Everyone in Flathead County should be concerned with the commissioners slashing this elderly project. We should all be concerned, and ashamed, at looking the other way while elderly suicides reach this level. This, as well as the rating of third in the nation for all age suicides. We all own these statistics.

This senior building project is not a subject that people should read about and then just shrug their shoulders. Think about it — before you head out for your next full day of recreation. What can you do to help others experience that joy? Flathead seniors should not have to pay the price of one more bungled decision by the commissioners. This is more than a building. This could be the prescription to improve the health of seniors.

Willits is a resident of Kalispell