Jackson seniors want to build community center

JACKSON, Mo. -- Seniors armed with photographs, statistics and personal stories convinced the Jackson Board of Aldermen to apply for a grant that will help them build a new $500,000 community center.

At a public hearing Tuesday night, seniors said they have outgrown their current building at 402 E. Washington St. Lunch is served in shifts because the 3,500-square-foot building cannot accommodate all the people who want to eat at the same time.

"We're squeezed for room," said Richard Aguilar, vice president of the Jackson Senior Citizens Center board.

The center averaged serving 174 meals per day during the past fiscal year.

The building has only 30 parking spaces. Its bathroom is not accessible for people who have disabilities.

The proposed center would more than double the size of the current center and would provide much more parking. No site has been chosen.

The Community Development Block Grant would provide a maximum of $300,000. Part of the difference would be paid by selling the current building.

Gathering at the senior center is the most important daily event in many seniors' lives, Sloan Tuschhoff said. Formerly a widower, he met his wife at the senior center.

sblackwell@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 182