FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 17, 2016
Contact: Laura Burns
781.749.0880
lburns887@gmail.com
HULL— “Senior citizens who’ve contributed to the vibrancy of their communities for decades are entitled to support and assistance that will help them continue to thrive,” said Joan Meschino, Democratic nominee to succeed former State Representative Garrett Bradley. Her plans focus on senior tax credits, transportation, and senior centers.
Meschino will continue Bradley’s practice of mailing an annual reminder of allowable state income tax deductions. “Every year, some seniors are surprised to learn they can claim a refundable credit for real estate taxes on their state income tax returns,” said Meschino. “Garrett Bradley’s annual informational mailer has helped many seniors claim credits for which they qualify.”
In addition to making seniors aware of existing programs, Meschino said she will work to help towns revise tax structures to help them remain in their homes and not be priced out of neighborhoods they’ve called home for many years. “Property tax bills are among their greatest challenges,” said Meschino. “I don’t think we’ve done everything we can to alleviate this burden. Seeking new help for seniors is a major goal for me.”
Access to adequate and appropriate transportation is another challenge for seniors who reside in suburban neighborhoods, said Meschino. “I will work to protect funding for The Ride because many seniors depend on this MBTA program for shopping, medical appointments, and social activities that contribute to their continued physical and emotional well-being,” she said. “I will work closely with state agencies to implement creative solutions to their transportation challenges.”
Meschino said she’ll help the senior centers in Hingham, Hull, Cohasset, and Scituate meet 21st century needs. “Hingham is planning a new, expanded senior center. I pledge to help make it a reality,” she said. “I’ll support the senior centers in our district to ensure they continue their good work.”