The Harrison County Senior Center will continue to work on improving the present Bethany Multi-Purpose Center after abandoning plans to move into the former Community of Christ church building on 24th Street.
The Harrison County Council on Aging had voted several months ago to purchase the church building as the future site for the senior center program. But the senior citizens encountered problems in getting the building ready as a multi-purpose center to replace the current senior center at the former Hub Restaurant location.
“It’s just not feasible,” said new Council on Aging President Chuck Goodwin of New Hampton.
Officials estimated that it would cost about $500,000 to renovate the church building. Their inspections showed that the foundation was cracking and the heating and air conditioning system would have to be replaced.
Goodwin said the HCCA board determined that it would be better to remain at the present location. Senior citizen officials have been encouraged by increased attendance for lunches at the center and have received good reviews on the menu.
The center has begun hosting bingo games on the first Monday of the month and plans on holding regular fundraisers.
The first priority has been to replace convection ovens, according to Goodwin. In the meantime, the senior center will continue to improve and maintain the present facility and build for the future.