Martins Creek – Nearly 40 people showed up for a community meeting to map a course for the Martins Creek Community Center, a 4,800-square-feet corrugated steel building that has hosted parties, church services and Election Day voting since it was built in the mid-1970s.
The building at 4605 Martins Creek Road includes a multipurpose room with a stage and half-court basketball, a full kitchen, meeting room and restrooms. It is heated with kerosene and has central heat and air.
Objecting to a Cherokee Scout headline, “Center may close soon,” newly minted finance officer Judy Perez led the charge during the Feb. 28 meeting to rally support and match volunteers to a wide range of needs.
Half the battle was waged the night before, when a new board of directors was seated, at least temporarily. But the next challenge will be rallying other area residents to pitch in time, talent and money.
Following Perez’s comments, attendees were invited to sign up for every job – from permanent president to janitors.
Membership is free to all residents in the Martins Creek Fire District. The center’s challenges include high expenses, limited resources and decreased demand.
For details, contact Perez at 813-310-2267 or dennisp41@verizon.net.