Fewer than a dozen residents showed up at an Italy Economic Development Corporation called meeting and workshop Monday to express their preference in the construction of a proposed community center in Italy.

Darrell Rosemond, design chair, headed the meeting in the absence of Mark Stiles, president.

Resident Jimmy Hyles was most vocal with his list of concerns.

Hyles said the building should be equipped to hold small meetings as well as large meetings, to hold graduation parties, weddings, and large enough for the fire department, for example, to host an area wide training course. 

He said the 3,800 square foot room should have a kitchen and two bathrooms and a large room with portable walls.

Hyles continued that the multi-purpose building should be low maintenance with stained concrete floors, bricks on the front and side with hadite blocks elsewhere, equipped for computer use and energy efficient windows. He said they need a sign but not one with plastic letters. He also stressed the need for zoned air conditioning. He said “going green” is good but more expensive.

Hyles stressed that the IEDC not over commit for the next 25 years and be unable to help a business that might want to move into town. He said he would like to see a project that is completed, something that residents can be proud of when they drive down the street.

Hyles questioned how much the IEDC budgeted to repair damages that occurred during the demolition of the previous community center. He said the alley behind the community center has sustained major damage due to the heavy equipment.

He also questioned whether the structure would be one story or two stories.

Resident Jody Garcia said a second floor would give the city the potential for bigger events. She said the IEDC should not build a building too small.

Resident Ann Hyles responded that the IEDC must stay within a budget.

A retired teacher, Mrs. Hyles said the school’s dome was built because school board members were told other schools would want to hold play-off games at Italy. She said that did not happen because there are not adequate eating and lodging establishments in Italy. She said the school continues to have a difficult time renting out the school’s domed gymnasium.

Mrs. Hyles did urged the IEDC to have an adequate kitchen for this type of construction.

Elmerine Bell, IEDC member, asked Mrs. Hyles to work with the architect to discuss the various types of appliances that may be required for such a facility.

Resident Mayme Onstad said the Italy Ministerial Alliance needs a “pantry” where they could give food to the needy. She said they need a large refrigerator, and possibly a freezer, in order to provide meat to the needy. She said the IMA currently has a 6’x8’ pantry area at the Methodist church.

She also stressed the need for senior citizens, Lions Club and Rotary Club to meet.

James Hobbs, local business owner, said the building across the street (former McConnell Furniture building) has about 7,500 square feet, which could accommodate larger events.

He said the buildings compliment one another and they could use the larger building for arts and crafts fairs as was used during the Christmas Festival.

Hobbs said the IEDC should build what they can afford to get them through the next few years.

Diego Garcia, local resident, said they could have a wish list with 90 items but stressed that they might only afford 10 items.

Rosemond said the architect roughly estimated the construction cost to be at $125 per square foot or approximately half a million dollars.

Hyles said he was not sure if the IEDC could afford a 3,800 square foot building at $125 per square foot.

In other business, the IEDC tabled a request to fund a Phase II Environmental Study for property on Main Street for a proposed dollar store. There was no representation from the proposed dollar store at the meeting.

Tom Little, member, said Dollar General came into town and built their store without assistance from the IEDC.

Prior to adjournment, Rosemond stressed the need for continued input regarding the construction of the community center.