(file photo/CHATNewsToday)

By Tiffany Goodwein

City staff to recommend Calgary-based Kerby Assembly for Senior Services contract

Jan 24, 2021 | 6:55 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB- Following a Request for Proposal process, city staff is expected to recommend Kerby Assembly as the new contract operator for the Veiner and Strathcona Centre.

The city says the move will save $190,000 a year in operating expenses relating to senior services while at the same time increasing programs and services.

City staff previously told CHAT News that the Veiner Centre costs the city roughly $1.4 million a year to operate and the contracted-out model will bring savings towards the Accelerated Financially Fit objectives.

“The members, volunteers, and residents expect the City to meet the current needs and trends for senior services by providing facilities, programming, and services important to the well-being of seniors while managing tax-payer dollars in an efficient and effective manner,” said Brian Mastel, managing director of the Public Services Division.

Kerby Assembly is based out of Calgary and has 45 years of experience in supporting and delivering seniors programming.

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According to their website, Kerby Assembly operates the Kerby Centre which provides food services, a wellness clinic, and housing resources for Calgarians 55 and older.

A number of fitness, recreation, and leisure classes are also provided.

Mastel said Kerby’s proposal for Medicine Hat “provides an extensive suite of services and programs, including all existing programs and services which will better serve our growing seniors demographic and allow the City to maximize the value of its financial contribution.”

Kerby Assembly’s proposal also includes new programs focused on wellness, lifelong learning and transitional supports.

If the contract is awarded by City Council, Kerby Assembly could begin operating the Veiner Centre and Strathcona Centre, three months after the contract is executed.

The Public Services Committee is expected to review the proposal on Monday during its committee meeting.