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Ryan Birth, Neighborhood Paramedic, then spoke about the initial program priorities since he began his role as Neighborhood Paramedic. He discussed the programs social media strategy and shared that the senior population seems to be very active with social media. He then discussed improvements made to the intake process to streamline documentation and reduce lag time for processing community referrals. Additionally, he provided an overview of anticipated grant funding for the next year. He went on to discuss the 2024 outlook for the program. He shared that they added three assistant Neighborhood Paramedics, one for each shift, to increase program capacity. He also discussed various outreach and partnership opportunities they have planned for the next year, including collaborations with the YMCA Lakewood Silver Sneakers Program, growing the Knox Box Program, expanding upon the car seat installation program, and improving the program’s presence at community events. Discussion: Councilmember Strebig sought clarification on the term "aging ready" and its relevance to Lakewood. Assistant Chief Sambula explained that it refers to homes and environments tailored to be safe and accessible for the aging population, incorporating features like grab rails and considering the home's construction era and potential safety hazards. He noted that only 10% of Lakewood's housing meets these "aging ready" standards. Councilman Rader highlighted the success of the CPR training program and askedif the program is expanding. Neighborhood Paramedic Ryan Birth responded with intentions to enhance and broaden the program’s online presence tofacilitate access to CPR training and other Neighborhood Paramedic resources. Councilman Baker asked about the program's capacity and future direction. In response, Neighborhood Paramedic Birth described the program's expansion efforts, leveraging partnerships with local organizations like Lakewood Alive and Healthy Lakewood. He mentioned the EMS referral program as an example of efforts to streamline services and emphasized the need for more support as the program seeks to widen its impact, stating that future directions would depend on community needs and feedback. Councilman Baker acknowledged the cost-saving aspect of the Neighborhood Paramedic Program and emphasized the importance of publicizing this benefit. Councilwoman Marx emphasized the significance of educating seniors about the program. She pointed out that many seniors are reluctant to leave their homes and may be hesitant to seek assistance. Councilwoman Marxstatedthat education is crucial to fostering positive relationships and ensuring that Lakewood’s elderly population is well-informed and comfortable with the Neighborhood Paramedic Program, rather than fearful of it. Councilman Bullock asked questions regarding the administrative and operational facets of the Neighborhood Paramedic Program. In response, Neighborhood Paramedic Birth clarified his role within the program, noting his dual training and active involvement both on the fire scene and in the Neighborhood Paramedic Program. Assistant Chief Sambula stated that the majority of the fire department personnel are cross trained in both firefighting and paramedic services, enabling any qualified firefighter to contribute to the Neighborhood Paramedic Program. Assistant Chief 2