The Mobile City Council approved transferring funds to design and demolish buildings for a Southside community center and senior center, a phased project that city leaders said will serve the Southside and broader east‑side neighborhoods.

Councilmember (unnamed speaker) said the funding will cover design and demolition for buildings purchased from the school board and described the project as the first phase toward a community center, senior center and Boys & Girls Club on Barkin Boulevard. The council discussed the project as filling a long‑standing gap in community services for the area.

The money approved at this meeting is for design work and demolition only; future phases were described that would renovate a remaining structure and add a gymnasium, with additional funding requests expected later.

Councilmembers said the center would serve seniors, youth and other city residents. The resolution and fund transfer were presented as part of capital improvement actions; no construction contract or architect award was approved at this meeting.

Councilmembers congratulated district leadership for securing the project and said the work will proceed in phases to match available funding.