SYRACUSE -- Seniors and supporters of the Ida Benderson Center plan to gather in downtown Syracuse Monday afternoon and stage a march on City Hall to oppose plans to close the senior center.
Since it was founded 36 years ago, the Ida Benderson Center in Syracuse has been a hotbed of political activism. Now that's it's facing a shutdown, the senior center is carrying on that tradition.
Mayor Stephanie Miner says the city can no longer afford the $120-thousand a year the Parks Department pays for rent on the center which is located in the heart of downtown Syracuse. She intends to close the center on October 1st. Up to 80 seniors visit the center each day for companionship,nutrition,social services and entertainment. Since the decision became public, there's been a storm of criticism.
On Friday, Syracuse Common Councilors from three political parties, and community activists appeared in front of the center along with a number of seniors to oppose the mayor attempt to close Ida Benderson.
"It's morally wrong to try to balance the city budget on the backs of the seniors." Green Party candidate for councilor Howie Hawkins told reporters.
Republican candidate for auditor Steve Kamatian added, "I have a concern there was no openness here. I have a concern that the participants at Ida Benderson didn't have a chance to voice their opinion."
Seniors also let their feelings be known. Ginger Dingman said, "My husband and I have been coming here for seven years and it's very hard to hear they're closing the center."
Reverend Jeffel Mike is a familiar face at the senior center, "You are letting us down!" Mike exclaimed to Mayor Miner who did attend the event. "Go back to the landlord and negotiate on the prices. See that you bring it down. Don't tell us there's no way out." he said.
When it shuts down at the end of the month, Mayor Miner would like the seniors to go to the Salvation Army Center several blocks away which the city feels is better equipped to handle their needs. Miner has proposed contracting with the Salvation Army for $60,000 over two years to help with the transition. City Councilors say they will refuse to go along with it.
"Me and my fellow Common Councilors will work very hard to try to overturn a decision that was made by the administration, by Stephanie Miner which was to close this without adequately consulting the people who use it." Councilor Jean Kessner said.
Fellow Councilor Nader Maroun told the crowd, "To move them to the Salvation Army is just not practical. Please, please Mayor, reconsider your situation here. We'll work with you...to find a way to keep Ida Benderson here."
In response to Friday's event, Mayor Miner issued a statement. "The agreement with the Salvation Army provides expanded and better services for our seniors while ultimately saving money. The Council's failure to support or provide a solution will not stop my administration from ensuring our seniors receive the services they need and deserve."
On Monday, the seniors and their supporters will gather at the Ida Benderson Center at 12:45 p.m. and march to City Hall a few blocks away for a rally.
Would you support such a rally? Do you support the Mayor's efforts to save money and contract with the Salvation Army?
