PEABODY — A $60,000 state grant for the Council on Aging is nothing more than business as usual. But in the wake of the state budget crisis, Director Denis Coleman is happy to have it.

Coleman said the money will help pay salaries at the Council on Aging, which operates one of the most active senior centers in the region, the Torigian Community Life Center.

The money is a "formula grant," with each locality receiving a sum determined by the number of people over the age of 60. It was made after the Legislature upped support for councils across the state by 10 percent, according to state Senate Majority Leader Fred Berry, D-Peabody.

"Despite tough economic times the Legislature was able to uphold our commitment to the councils on aging," Berry said.

Coleman said such funding actually decreased two years ago in the midst of the budget crisis.

State Rep. Joyce Spiliotis, D-Peabody, praised Coleman's work in making the Peabody Council on Aging such a success. The local COA's facility is seen as a model for others, she said.

"This grant will enhance the great work already being done every day," she said.