In a recent meeting of the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board in Grand Island, NY, members engaged in a spirited discussion about the proposed community center, emphasizing the need for clear communication and transparency regarding its features, particularly for senior services. The board is preparing for a referendum in November, seeking to secure $10 million for the project, which aims to include a fitness facility and spaces for Golden Age Center activities.

The conversation highlighted the importance of presenting the community center's offerings in a straightforward manner. Board members suggested using bullet points to outline key features, ensuring that potential voters understand what the investment will provide. "People might not even look at the plan; they might just look at bullets," one member noted, stressing the need for clarity in promotional materials.

Concerns were raised about the feasibility of including a full kitchen in the new facility, with discussions indicating that while senior services would be part of the plan, the complete relocation of the Golden Age Center was not feasible. Instead, the focus would be on providing activity rooms and multi-use spaces that could accommodate various community needs.

The board also discussed the necessity of addressing potential pushback from seniors who may feel that their needs are not fully met in the new center. "If you want this to pass, you need to build it with senior services in mind," one member urged, emphasizing the importance of including specific provisions for seniors in the proposal.

As the meeting progressed, members expressed a collective desire to ensure that the community center would serve all demographics, particularly seniors, while also appealing to younger community members. The board plans to communicate its consensus to the town council, advocating for the inclusion of senior services in the final proposal.

In addition to the community center discussions, the board touched on other topics, including a naming policy for town facilities and ongoing issues with geese at local parks, which have raised concerns about cleanliness and safety for children. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue advocating for the community's needs and ensuring that the upcoming referendum reflects the desires of Grand Island residents.