Orchard Park’s seniors need a larger facility, a couple of residents told the Town Board at its Jan. 18 meeting. They’ve outgrown their current facility, they say.

“It’s ultimately lacking in space,” says Tom Pieczynski, who added that he often visits other senior centers. “I think the senior citizenry is being short-shrifted and I hope not neglected.”

Jacqueline Briggs also spoke to the board of only two that night — as the supervisor was absent — noting that the 2010 federal census revealed an increase in the senior population during the past 10 years.

“We’re living longer and healthier lives as a result of the programs and activities the Senior Center offers. “But because of limited space, groups are forced to seek larger facilities.”

Councilman David Kaczor said the board is aware that the senior facility in the town does not adequately meet the needs of Orchard Park’s seniors.

He said, however, that right now funding is especially tight and that 10 years ago there would have been more money available for such a venture.

In another matter, the board applauded Police Chief Andrew Benz, who was recently elected 2012 president of the Erie County Association of Chiefs of Police.

Benz joined the organization in 2008 and served as first and second vice presidents before being elected president this year.

The board also approved appointments to the town’s newest committee, the Police Procedures & Operations Review Committee.

The committee aims to improve efficiency within the Police Department. The appointees include Nick Biach, chairperson, and Toni Cudney, Ed Graber, John Bailey, Joseph Wales, Mark Pacholec and Ed Hempling.

The board also:

Appointed Marianne Hoover to a three-year term on the Orchard Park Public Library Board.

Approved the appointment of Dr. Patrick Keem to a one-year term on the Public Safety Committee.

Accepted the resignation of Joseph Alfieri from the Comprehensive Implementation Committee.

The next Town Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, in the courtroom at the Municipal Building, 4295 S. Buffalo St. A work session will precede it at 6 p.m. in the supervisor’s conference room. email: nspencer@beenews.com