Residents urge Activity Center modernization, ADA access and return of kitchen

Multiple residents and council members urged the Town to prioritize modernization of the Huachuca City Activity Center during the March 21 public hearing, describing accessibility shortcomings and program potential.

Diane Hildebrant (175 Skyline) told the council that "the ramp is great, but once they get to the doors, they can’t open them," and asked that doors, bathrooms and other access points be made ADA‑compliant. Others said restoring the kitchen would allow the center to host meals, classes and rental events to generate revenue and reduce social isolation among seniors. Town Manager Suzanne Harvey asked whether a single CDBG project could cover a full modernization versus a smaller kitchen-only repair; SEAGO planner William Osborne advised that state special projects (SSP) grants can fund design and engineering work to ready larger implementation projects for future CDBG funding.

Mayor Johann Wallace summarized public proposals as including ADA upgrades, a restored kitchen and safer parking and pedestrian access to support seniors, after‑school programs and revenue generation. Councilmembers and staff said the ideas will be included in the compiled project list for a future resolution and possible SSP or CDBG application.