MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WILX) – On Thursday, seniors in Meridian Township voiced their concerns about the township’s plans for a new community center, saying it is too expensive and does not provide enough space for seniors.
“We looked at several concepts where a small corner serves as a special senior area. We now have 900 square meters,” said Barbara O’Kelly.
O’Kelly said the multi-million dollar new construction will not only result in less space for seniors, but will also be a burden on taxpayers.
“They have $5 million from the state, but they estimated the entire remodel would cost $20 to $30 million,” O’Kelly said.
Meridian Township Supervisor Scott Hendrickson said that in addition to the $5 million from the state, the township also has money in its capital fund and has currently submitted a request for even more funds to Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin’s office.
“We want to make sure we communicate to our citizens that we are working to reduce costs for them as much as possible,” said Scott Hendrickson.
As for the designated senior areas, Hendrickson said the plans have been revised so they are the same size. However, not all board members agree with building the center.
“It’s irresponsible to take so much money from our reserves to pay for something that would be nice but isn’t absolutely necessary. We need a new senior center, but I think we can do that without going into debt,” said Meridian Township Treasurer Phil Deschaine.
After a long meeting on Thursday, the board voted 5-2 that the proposal will not be on the November ballot, but that efforts will be made to reword it so that board agreement is possible.
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