by Marty McDaneld, Grand Junction

On July 16, a standing room-only crowd heard the recommendations from PLACE for a Community Center for Grand Junction. The study showed that 88% of those surveyed think a Community Center is important, and an almost equal number were willing to pay an additional 1/3-cent sales tax to build the facility. This would cost the average family about $40 a year in increased sales taxes.

In presenting the proposal, PLACE members Kimberly Langston and Andreya Krieves emphasized the many comments on the survey saying, “Do it right, do it now!”

PLACE, in coordination with the City Parks and Recreation Department, initiated an extensive feasibility study to evaluate the need and interest in a Community Center.

PLACE (People for Local Activities & Community Enrichment) is a team of our Alliance members in Mesa County which began building support for such a facility in 2015.

Top desired amenities were aquatics, fitness areas, community meeting areas and gym space. Additional amenities would include a childcare area, a bouldering wall for teens, specific teen and senior spaces and a walking track.

Based on the results of the survey, PLACE is recommending building the new Community Center at Matchett Park. In addition, PLACE is recommending renovation of the Orchard Mesa pool and gym to provide additional space in a cost effective manner.

PLACE is requesting that the City Council make its decision to refer the proposal to the April 2019 ballot by August 15. Should the council not refer the measure, PLACE would need to begin collecting signatures to petition being on the April 2019 ballot.