During a recent government meeting, community member Matthew Bunnell presented a proposal for a new recreation center aimed at addressing the lack of facilities for youth sports and activities in the area. Bunnell highlighted the historical context of the community's need for a recreational space, noting that efforts to establish a center date back to 1976, yet no facility has been built.

The proposed center would serve children aged 9 to 14 and include multiple gyms, sports fields, and community meeting spaces. Bunnell emphasized the importance of providing local youth with opportunities for physical activity, particularly in light of the increasing prevalence of sedentary lifestyles due to technology. He pointed out that the current single gym often leads to scheduling conflicts for various age groups and sports teams.

Bunnell's vision includes a multi-use facility with features such as two regulation basketball courts, a turf field for indoor soccer, and additional baseball and softball fields. He also proposed integrating the center with the local school to maximize accessibility and community engagement. The location suggested for the center is centrally situated near existing infrastructure, making it easily reachable for families.

To fund the project, Bunnell mentioned potential partnerships with organizations focused on youth sports and health, such as the Harold Bell Fund and the New Balance Foundation. He expressed a desire to avoid raising taxes to finance the initiative, aiming instead for grants and community support.

The proposal has garnered interest from local officials, and further discussions are expected as the community considers the feasibility and potential impact of establishing a dedicated recreation center.